Dating back to l929, the residence was originally built as two independent apartments and the current owners have stayed true to those origins . . . but with a tasteful upgrade of the interior and gardens.

Both apartments, Merlin and Avalon, have a flexible layout that allows for a conversion into one spacious, four-bed family home if desired.

Merlin works its magic from the start with a bright entrance hall that runs the entire depth of the house. To the left is the bay-windowed reception room with original fireplace, ceiling coving and picture rail.

Leading off either side of the hall are the two bedrooms, again each with their vintage fireplaces, coving and picture rails.

The kitchen/dining room is wholly modern, by contrast, with white units fronted by opaque glass finish and integrated, top-brand appliances.

There is a glass brick wall inset, and additional light also flows in through the set of French doors which open out to the decked patio and garden.

The shower room also strikes a contemporary note with its pristine white bathroom suite contrasting against metallic-effect uPVC wall cladding.

Avalon is on the first floor and has dual access to the entrance from both front and rear gardens. The lobby has a tiled floor and feature glass brick wall inset enhancing the natural light.

Accommodation here comprises the main reception room with feature fireplace, dining area with fitted shelving and compact kitchen fitted with opaque fronted contemporary units with solid beech worktops, Franke sink, Zanussi appliances and Amtico tiled floor.

Adjacent is the well-fitted utility, a bathroom in similar style to the Merlin apartment and two double bedrooms . . . one of which has original cornice and picture rail.

The lowdown

Address: No 36 Fortfield Terrace, Rathmines, Dublin 6 Details: Two own-door, selfcontained two-bed apartments circa 162.2sq m (1,750sq ft), each with entrance hall, reception room, kitchen, two double bedrooms and shower room.

Front drive with parking for three cars; rear garden (61ft) with deck, lawn, detached garage and carport.

Highlights: Stylishly upgraded apartments, built 1929. Suitable either as home and income or for converting into a single home.

Price: 1.5m Agent: Felicity Fox 01-633 4431