The previous proprietors of a two-faced single-bedroom cottage located in Rathmines, Dublin 6 came across newspapers that were older than the French Revolution whilst renovating the dwelling. Purchased in a rather run-down condition in 2019, the former carriage house at 16 Castlewood Terrace has been extensively modernised and reconstructed to align with the grander structures alongside Castlewood Avenue.
Fortunately, the structural framework of the 65 sqm (or 700 sqft) house was sound, boasting granite walls and floors and devoid of any dampness. A comprehensive refurbishment was undertaken: the attached kitchen in the rear was stripped down and rebuilt, all the joists, pipework, wiring and window frames were removed and fitted anew, and a modern gas combination boiler was put in.
Presently, potential homeowners have the opportunity to acquire a ready-to-move-in end-of-terrace residence tucked away on a peaceful dead-end street a stone’s throw away from Rathmines Swan Centre. The terrace leading to Gulistan Cottages, has an array of long-time resident families as well as newcomers who recently moved in. Sherry FitzGerald is overseeing the sale of this property, which has a price tag of €550,000.
Keeping up with the timeless charm, the exterior of the house is adorned with Farrow & Ball’s Dove Tale paint and the window niches are painted anthracite harmonising with the newly fitted windows. The entrance door leads into a comfy lounge with the original stone chimney breast still bearing marks of vintage plaster adding to its allure.
The cast-iron fireplace was extracted, deconstructed, and immersed in a unique blue-grey shade, a theme carried throughout the dwelling. The now-sealed chimney and new cast-iron radiators provide heating to the C2-rated home. The staircase was remodelled to optimise space, and the alcove beneath has been turned into a quaint home office blessed with natural light.
The extension which previously housed the bathroom now serves as a utility room. A part of it was trimmed to accommodate a banquette seating area in the kitchen. The vibrant BeSpace kitchen offers abundant storage, quartz countertops, and a breakfast bar. Additionally, the kitchen tap is equipped with a water filter. The kitchen opens out, through French doors, to a cosy back garden.
The entire household, including every nook and cranny of the outdoor area, has been meticulously planned and utilised. At the highest point of the sloped garden is a C-shaped seating arrangement, installed to optimise the late afternoon sunlight. In addition to this, a red robin tree embellishes the space, with the surroundings beautifully outlined by wisteria and jasmine that have been delicately grown and nurtured from a neighbouring garden.
Inside the property, there’s a spacious double bedroom with slanted ceilings and a big Velux window, with additional natural light coming from another window set lower down on the wall. A quaint, cast-iron fireplace partitions the end wall between a pair of integrated wardrobes. The property’s single bathroom, renovated and equipped with tiles that blend in with the house’s subtle black accessories theme, is located on this floor.
In essence, the house is a historic dwelling brimming with appeal and a delightful blend of age-old characteristics. Supported by a refined sense of design and unnoticeable contemporary additions, the property is well-positioned to remain a cherished and habitable home for many more centuries to come.
With its prime location, it offers its residents quick and easy access to the city centre. It also provides an extensive range of shops, eateries, and pubs just a short walk away in the bustling heart of Rathmines.