The problem with “turnkey” properties is that what looks great to one owner may not be to the taste of the next. Number 4 Annesley Park in Ranelagh, Dublin, may be an outlier on this issue, however, as it has been redesigned so delicately, it is difficult to see what part of the house could be offensive to anyone.
The split-level Victorian redbrick has recently been renovated to within an inch of its life. The current owners bought the house in 2022 and upgraded it in every way imaginable. It got new sash windows, all the plumbing and piping has been replaced from the outside in, rewiring has been extensive and the insulation taken care of.
When it comes to the finer details, the 123sq m (1,324sq ft) house has remained true to its Victorian beginnings through careful restoration and bespoke replication. The colours have been kept neutral and the fittings are high-end but restrained. There is nothing pretentious about the renovation, yet it still manages to feel luxurious.
The railed front garden has been landscaped with green areas dotted between red paving stones, with an olive tree placed in the centre as a showstopper. Four steps lead up to the front door with fanlight and the original surround.
Once inside, the freshness of the recent work is evident. From the panelling in the hallway to the solid-oak floors, everything feels bright and clean. To the right is the formal livingroom with 3.7m-high ceilings, complete with coving and a centre rose. A cast-iron fireplace with a solid-fuel stove has recessed shelving on both sides.
From the hall, stairs take you to the lower ground floor which is home to the kitchen and cosy family room, as well as a guest shower room and utility space. The kitchen is fully fitted with white units and Neff appliances.
Crittall-style patio doors take you out to the 16m (53ft) garden. There is a large, paved area just outside the house and an artificial grass lawn with a pathway leading to a garden room and a seating area with pergola. The garden room has a bathroom so could be used as guest accommodation, home office or gym.
Back in the house, the basement has been transformed into a wine cellar, which was inspired by Morton’s wine shop just around the corner.
Upstairs, there are two bedrooms. The principal bedroom has a walk-in wardrobe that leads into the en suite bathroom. This has been designed so that the long window gives views out to the apple tree in the garden while one is bathing in the free-standing bath. There is also a separate shower with a rainwater head, and a Villeroy and Boch sink with storage unit.
The house is Ber exempt, but the owners are confident about its efficiency and say they never have to turn on the radiators upstairs.
On the market with a guide price of €1.495 million through Lisney Sotheby’s International Realty, the house is located in the heart of Dublin 6. It is just off Dunville Avenue, with its speciality shops and cafes, and a short walk into Ranelagh village. The Luas stop is only a few minutes away on foot, while those who enjoy a brisk walk could be in the city in 20 minutes.
