The Rathgar location will also be an obvious draw, with good specialist shops and schools around the village.

Built circa 1915, enough of the original early 20th century charm and architectural detail of the house remains to inspire new owners to make their mark. Laid out over three storeys, the tall ceilings, elegant fireplaces and interconnecting formal reception rooms echo the lifestyle of a bygone era. But there is the practical and modern too . . .

namely, the galley-shaped kitchen with breakfast bar, updated by the current family owners. Upstairs, the original cast-iron bath and timber wainscotting are reminders again of the times when bathrooms were first introduced and were rather grand affairs.

Accommodation opens from the entrance hall, light-filled via the original leaded-glass door panels and polished timber floorboards. Leading off is the equally bright living room, which, like the hall, has defined ceiling coving and picture rail, and benefits from the dual light also flowing from the adjoining dining room. The panelled wooden doors are kept open between these two rooms to create one large entertaining space, while both have antique marble and castiron fireplaces as centrepieces.

To the rear of the ground floor is the kitchen.

On the first floor are two double bedrooms, both with ceiling cornices and polished hardwood floors. The larger room also retains its cast-iron fireplace. The main bathroom, with both bath and separate shower, is also on this level.

Up on the third level, the remaining bedroom is a large double with views of Rathgar's rooftops and skyline.

To the front of the house is the traditional railed garden with tiled path bordered by miniature conifers. At the back is a walled courtyard garden with flower beds.

The lowdown Address: 10 Wesley Road, Rathgar, Dublin 6 Details: Three-bedrooms, hall, living room, dining room, kitchen and bathroom laid out over three storeys Highlights: Lots of period features, including high ceilings, cornicing, antique "replaces and polished "oorboards Price: 975,000 Agent: Sherry FitzGerald, 01-490 7433