Built in 1864, this five-bed family home has undergone the proverbial, extensive refurbishment of many period properties currently on the market, but also with a number of extras that make it that bit special. The rear garden is 125 feet in length . . . a feat in itself in a city location . . . and at the end of which is the original coach house, which has planning permission for a 400sq ft detached summer pavillion.

Before the visitor even gets that far, however, the house has that subtle blend of period detail with modern comfort that invites you to stop in your tracks and take in the generous proportions and architectural detail. The current owners moved in seven years ago and set about transforming prim Victoriana into a modern family home. A single-storey extension was built to the rear, bringing the total floor area to 2,750sq ft and allowing for a conservatory on the first floor return, as well as the creation of a vast communal kitchen with big informal dining area.

Architraves, internal panelled doors, picture rails and floorboards have been stripped back to their original pine in several rooms, giving a mellow, natural look to the decor. Castiron radiators were sourced to blend sympathetically with the proportions of the highceilinged rooms and while the new double-glazed windows are not restored timber originals, they conform to the traditional sash design.

Entrance is up a flight of wide, granite steps and through the hall door with stained glass fanlight. The reception hall retains its original brass handrail and plaster coving. There are four large rooms at hall level, two of which function as formal reception rooms. These rooms interconnect through floor-to -ceiling panelled doors, ensuring an abundance of natural light from the dual-aspect windows when left open. The sash windows retain their working, wooden shutters. Marble fireplaces are focal points in each room, while picture rails and coving enhance the tall ceilings. Leading off the other side of the entrance hall are two double bedrooms, each with original fireplaces. The conservatory is to the end of hall, on the return, and has stainedglass windows and double doors to a large timber deck.

Downstairs, the kitchen is a showstopper, fitted with extensive presses, central island, granite work surfaces, Belfast sink and all easily accommodated in this larger-than-average space (29' x 13'). The fitted dresser gives a nod to the Victorian heritage of the house, while through the arch is an inviting family dining area with a cast-iron fireplace and patio doors out to the garden.

There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms at this level, all generously sized due to the additional space of the extension. The first double bedroom features a cast-iron fireplace, ceiling coving and working wooden window shutters. Another double bedroom, in the extension, is currently used as a child's room. The master bedroom is very spacious and opens, through its original stained-glass door, into an equally large en-suite with both a cast-iron bath and separate power shower.

At over 12sq ft, the main bathroom allows for the luxury of placing the free-standing cast-iron bath, pride of place, in the centre of the room.

Outside, the front drive is cobble-locked for necessary parking. The long, south-facing rear garden is sheltered via old stone and brick walls, and there is an array of mature trees and shrubs. Dublin city centre is a 20-minute walk away, while in the other direction is the Botanic Gardens and a host of amenities.

Price: 1.4m Agent: DNG 01 830 0989