Victoria’s secret in D8

Behind the Victorian red brick is a home that combines old features and new design — and a surprisingly high BER rating, writes Tommy Barker

There’s been a subtle re-gentrification of Dublin 8 streets like Lombard Street West, so much so the area has the nickname ‘the muesli belt,’ according to estate agent Gerry King — as he prepares to arrange viewings of the more than tasty morsel that is No 31.

This immaculate, Victorian-style city villa came to market just a few weeks prior to Christmas, and has a €485,000 asking price, reflecting recent sales and valuations for the handy D8 location, near St Stephen’s Green/Lower Clanbrassil Street and amenities.

Extended in recent times to the rear with a bright add-on linked to smart outdoor space, the floor plan/layout is similar to many other villa-like red-bricks around the south circular road. It’s entered on street level with a main front, formal 16’ by 14’ reception room, and then with the stairs splitting to the back, down to a lower long, living / dining room, with the kitchen at the far extremity in the now-extended space.

This lower level is also home to the sole bathroom, while above are two modest-size, rear-facing bedrooms.

According to Ranelagh-based selling agent Gerry King, the extension and refurbishment “has been done to the highest of standards, combining the period and the contemporary.”

Thus, he notes, the original house retains the features of No 31’s Victorian roots, such as sash windows, ornate plasterwork and cornicing, some original fire surrounds etc, while Spanish interior designer Cristina Passos & Associates, who’s just recently moved to Dublin, looked after the newer section with a fresh, cool shades-of-blue look.

The ground floor bathroom is well tiled in a golden, honeyed large tile on the floor and up the walls, with wall-mounted ceramic sink. It has a corner shower, separate corner bath and towel rad, while around the house other radiators suit the look: period, cast-iron style in the bay-windowed front living room, and crisp and contemporary in the extension, with a tall, slender rad in place by the breakfast bar. Kitchen units are simple and classic. Ceilings for the most part have coving, the doors are walnut, and windows are draped in quality fabrics.

Features include rear lane access by the mellow brick back boundary wall and an easy-keep sandstone-flagged exterior yard/patio with planters, bamboos and a concealed storage shed.

The rear extension is single storey only. Thanks to the renewal, the house overall now has a surprisingly good B3 BER energy rating, double-glazing, gas central heating and a solid fuel stove in the 35’ by 13’ extension, alarm, high decor standard and is in walk-in condition.

VERDICT: A classic terraced Dublin city pad off the South Circular Road, within an easy walk of most of the city centre’s attractions and in a popular ‘professional’ belt.