Renovated rectory hits the right note

THE Rectory, Kilcolman dates back to the early 1800s, to some time between 1820 to 1840, although the exact construction date is unclear.

Set in the Constable-esque farmland of south Cork, this stout, stone-built house was the property of a Canon Lamb, who in turn was probably a tenant of the Earl of Bandon’s estate.

The Lamb family arrived in the area in the 17th century and still hold land nearby; in fact, they only sold the Rectory in the 1980’s.

The property was probably also connected to Kilcolman House, a three-storey property of similar vintage, which was burnt down in 1921.

A similar occurrence saw off the seat of the Earl of Bandon, the 19th century Castle Bernard, which is now an ivy covered ruin close to the modern home built by the 5th and last Earl. The surrounding land is now a golf course.

The Rectory, however, emerged unscathed through periods of great upheaval, from the Famine to the War of Independence and has been in continual use as a family home.

The present owners did a lot of remedial work when they took it over some 10 or more years ago, although you wouldn’t think it as the house retains all of its character, but without the drawbacks.

The roof has been redone, new felt and battens placed under old slate, but according to the owner, the trusses were perfect.

Then, the plumbing was installed and the electrics upgraded, but the major work happened at basement or garden level.

This was completely gutted, dry lined and replastered and is now the engine room of this venerable property.

Relaxing family rooms and good working utilities and stores make for an efficient house and there’s a direct back door exit to the stone built courtyard.

There are little still lives everywhere in this house and it has all been well thought out, but it’s not precious.

The look is classic country and in the right property it’s perfect. Glass and cedar boxes may be the rage, but good taste is timeless.

So, Nicolas Mosse mugs on a dresser in the big square kitchen aren’t a cliche; they’re just right, as is the double-oven Aga which offers heat and warm scones.

Red floral tablecloths and blooming anemones hit that extra note. It’s Jane Austen meets Jane Churchill and that’s not to be sneezed at — it’s a winning property formula.

Downstairs is all very relaxed, while the ground floor, or main entrance level, is very impressive. The 12’ high ceilings are part of this, but it’s the styling that does the rest. Huge swags and thick interlined chintz curtains give a dramatic frame to the windows, which are painted in a true clotted cream colour. Odd antique pieces line the walls and furniture is worn enough to look like it’s always been there, the moss green silk velvet sofa being a case in point.

That’s in the formal drawing room, but the dining room isn’t the expected mahogany and silver shiver room of big houses. Instead, it’s got a circular, bergere dining suite that’s very French and perfect for cards and, according to estate agent Pacelli Nolan, most dining takes place in the kitchen.

Which about sums up the ambience of this family home. Now that the children are away, the owners are downsizing and that’s an opportunity for someone else to take over. Because that’s all that will be needed.

Pacelli Nolan of SWS Property Services is seeking offers in excess of €3 million for the rectory.