Nearby, at No 15 Orchard Terrace, a tasteful makeover of a period house shows how a fresh approach can also greatly improve on an original.

The house sits unobtrusively within a neat redbrick terrace but once though the gleaming, black front door, the interior design is strikingly handsome.

The decorative coving that traditionally defines the typical Victorian hallway is absent here - but the impact of the smart black and white tiled floor and soft white painted walls more than compensate. To the left is the main formal reception room with original black cast-iron fireplace, tall sash window and polished timber floors. The room is styled with modern furniture and a contemporary, pattern rug, all adding to the freshness of the interior.

Further along the hall is a guest shower room and then it's on to the heart of this home - the open-plan living/dining room with vaulted ceiling and french doors to the garden.

This is a real feelgood space, courtesy of the abundant natural light and relaxed mood - bright, modern and ideal for hosting parties and informal get-togethers. From the living area, two steps lead down to the spacious kitchen fitted with cream units and neatly integrated appliances.

Upstairs, off the bright landing, are the main shower room with power shower, three double bedrooms and a single bedroom. All rooms have polished timber floors and two of the bedrooms have original cast-iron fireplaces.

To the rear is a small, terraced garden bordered by flowerbeds.

Orchard Terrace, just off North Circular Road, is within a short distance of Phibsborough village and the Phoenix Park. The red Luas line running through Smithfield is 10 minutes' walk away, with the quays and city centre just a few steps further.

The lowdown

Address: 15 Orchard Terrace, Upper Grangegorman, North Circular Road, Dublin 7 Details: 121sq m (1,305sq ft); four beds; formal reception room;

living/dining room; kitchen; guest cloakroom; shower room; rear courtyard garden Highlights: Extended and lightfilled living/dining/kitchen opening to garden Price: Euro825,000 Agent: Felicity Fox 01-633 4431