Reservoir of potential for distinctive and private Inniscarra home

Trish Dromey likes this distinctive Inniscarra residence

Curraleigh, Innishannon, Co. Cork

Inniscarra, Co Cork
€775,000
Size	237sq m (2,551sq ft)
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	4
BER	B3

Set into a gently sloping hillside at Curraleigh, close to Inniscarra Lake, this striking architect-designed residence combines contemporary character with a peaceful countryside setting, all within easy reach of Cork City.

Occupying a private one-acre site surrounded by mature trees and landscaped gardens, the four-bedroom home enjoys commanding views across rolling countryside, woodland, and the Inniscarra dam. But, despite its tranquil rural setting, the property is just 14km from Cork city centre and about a 10-minute drive from Ballincollig.

Built in 1997, and designed by architect Jim Leahy for its current owners, who were clearly intent on maximising comfort and making the most of the elevated site, the result is a distinctive ‘upside-down’ design, with the main living spaces on the upper level.

Viewers will almost certainly linger in the first-floor kitchen/dining room to take in the views from the dramatic sunroom-style picture window overlooking the valley. A timber-floored split-level room, it features a vaulted ceiling painted a bold shade of red, blue-grey fitted units, natural stone detailing, and a stove.

Next door, the living room continues the theme of light and views. Its features include a timber fireplace, a large trapezoidal window, and a set of patio doors onto a balcony with expansive valley views.

Above the living room a mezzanine-style minstrel gallery has been cleverly adapted as a home office.

The first floor also has a utility, a guest WC, and family/music room overlooking the side gardens through two large windows.

A timber staircase leads to the lower floor, which has two bathrooms and four bedrooms including a generous en suite.

Outdoors, a covered patio with a stove and built-in seating creates a sheltered area perfect for entertaining. The grounds include extensive lawns, a tree-lined driveway and an attractive woodland area.

On the market with a guide price of €775,000, the 237sq m property has a respectable B3 BER.

Sean McCarthy of ERA Downey McCarthy says the home offers “the perfect balance of peaceful rural living and convenience” with easy access to Ballincollig’s schools, shops, and 24-hour bus service.

VERDICT: For buyers seeking a distinctive family home in a picturesque setting, this architect-designed residence offers privacy, space, and exceptional views in equal measure.