The property located at 86 Rathgar Road holds the prestige of being among the oldest homes in Rathgar, with its origins dating back to the early 19th century. The three-bedroom, two-level house boasts an additional basement and an array of distinguishable Georgian features, including wide hallways that are notably larger than those found in Victorian counterparts, as well as towering dual-glazed sash windows.
The property, which is exempt from Building Energy Rating (BER), was purchased by the current owners six years back, who then undertook a comprehensive redecoration. They relished the task of rejuvenating the spacious 255-square-meter house. Carpets in a neutral taupe cover all levels except the basement. Walls are adorned with textured wallpaper from French designer Casamance, with variations in hue between the reception areas and bedrooms.
Situated at a reasonable distance from the road, the property has a gravelled driveway that fits two cars, includes an EV charging point and leads to the basement entrance. The entrance to the main house is marked by granite steps that open into the hallway. This part of the house is distinctively decorated with oversized French mirrors, vintage furniture and a cherished art collection that bestow a singular charm to the ground floor rooms.
Functional open fireplaces with marble mantels, cast-iron insets and slate-tiled bases, are seen in the interconnected living rooms, which are separated by original wooden doors and decorative plinths. The dining room, used alternatively as an office by the owner, offers picturesque views of the garden and can potentially be merged with the other room to allow maximum light, given its east to west orientation.
Located in the basement, the kitchen is characterised by a central island that demarcates the workspace from the dining area. An additional shield from the pantry/utility is provided by a retractable pocket door. The counters showcase a cream-tone granite with splashes of red and gold. Below-staircase storage space provides a perfect wine collection. An external door in this room provides access to the front garden.
An adjacent shower room, featuring fresh hued tiles, and a number of open shelves filled with glassware, serve ware and books, lend an added appeal. The passage leads to a surprise element, a living area tucked at the back, designed by architect Eileen Fitzgerald. A glass ceiling with rib-like frames lets light flood into the space, making it an ideal secondary living area.
The home boasts twin doors leading out to a fully landscaped, west-facing garden, which is not only maintenance-free, but also offers complete privacy. The garden is adorned with an array of established trees, jasmine, age-old roses, and magnolia plants. Winton Mews in Winton Avenue is just a doorstep away, thanks to a door in the end wall.
A family bathroom welcomes you on the first landing, which features window viewpoints enclosed by vibrant roses. Above this restroom lies a quaint terrace, accessible via a door on the second floor. This area is earmarked for basking in sunlight or unwinding with a late-night tipple, all in the privacy afforded by a tall slatted fence to one side.
Van Gogh’s almond blossom themed wallpaper panel enhances the interest quotient of the first floor, which is equipped with three sizable bedrooms. Two of these are located at the front while the main room at the rear boasts an impressive array of built-in wardrobes. This feature accentuates the storage space of the room which is tastefully decorated. Another recently refurbished bathroom is housed by the property’s final level.
While the proprietors are reducing their footprint, they express interest in continuing their residence in Rathgar Village, which is conveniently located just around the corner. Their love for their current community, along with the appeal of local amenities, underpins this intention. The house is on the market through Sherry FitzGerald, and the listed price is €1.695 million.