Original features such as the cast iron fireplaces and sash windows retain that echo of Victoriana, while the new kitchen overlooking the sunny rear deck means this 1860s house has been redesigned to maximise those most important of 21st century features, space and natural light.

With the house now extending to 85sq ms (920sq ft), with two bedrooms upstairs and two reception rooms downstairs, the young owners have given a fresh lease of life to their city home.

When they bought it five years ago, number 37 still had some of those rather less appealing 19th century features including the old outside loo common to the back of many Victorian houses.

"The terrace had originally been built for officers for the Cathal Brugha Barracks, and the houses are of a really solid structure, " says owner Ciaran Fallon. "But this was certainly very much in its original state, needing substantial modernisation. So we built on a two-storey extension to the rear, while still leaving space for a suntrap patio. The entire kitchen wall is glass and links directly with the deck. It gives that feeling that you're sitting outdoors when you're in the kitchen, and as the patio faces fully south, the room is filled with warmth and sunlight most of the day."

Accommodation comprises entrance hall, living room, dining room, kitchen, two double bedrooms and bathroom. Cast-iron stoves have been installed in the original fireplaces in the reception rooms, and both these rooms also have their original ceiling cornices. (Gas-fired central heating has also been installed throughout. ) A door leads from the dining room directly onto the deck.

In the fully-fitted kitchen, integrated appliances are housed within the built-in wall and floor units, while worktops are in timber and walls are partly tiled. A special feature of the room is the glass wall and door to the deck.

Upstairs, there is built-in shelving on the landing and access to the attic. Leading off are the two bedrooms which are carpeted; the bathroom has a timber-panelled ceiling and a feature here is the glass brick wall and frosted glass door. There is potential to add a rear balcony (subject to planning permission).

Outside, the patio garden with decking also has whitewashed walls to reflect the sunlight. There is a handy little storage shed too, plumbed for a washer/dryer.

An undoubted attraction is the convenience of the address. Lennox Street is right in the heart of fashionable Portobello, with amenities on the doorstep including delis, coffee shops and florists', while St Stephen's Green and Grafton Street are just a short stroll away.

Close by is the green Luas line with access to the south city, while several buses pass by on the nearby South Circular Road.

The owners are now starting a family and moving to a bigger home, but will miss their city pad. "It's been a great neighbourhood and a great house for parties."

Agent: Felicity Fox 01-633 4431 Price: 575,000