One of the benefits of the houses along Woodlawn Park in Churchtown is that the properties, being bungalows, are not overlooked. The current owner of Number 88 says it was her mother who first pointed out the potential of houses in the vicinity, remarking how they have such amazing potential.
Duly purchased in 1999 at auction, the property “really hadn’t been touched since it was built”, says the owner, and she really wanted to open the entire space up. With the assistance of an architect friend, a dining room and living room were added to the rear, which now gives the house 200sq m (2,150sq ft) of space – though you would not think this from its deceptive exterior.
“I also wanted to create that sense of openness,” says the owner, who removed many internal doors, so now the garden space is visible from the front door. Not only did she design the house, she also project-managed the entire build and renovation while pregnant.
Recently she took on upstairs as a new project, in the form of a superb principal bedroom, which she wanted to have a sanctuary feel. It is now full of light – as is the rest of the house – through clever use of glazing, and a total contrast to what the property originally was: smaller, darker and quite poky.
The rear garden has a large sun terrace with a westerly aspect, and extends to 100 feet in length. As it is bordered by mature hedging and laid out with lawn, it “has been a great place for lots of kids to play, as it is so safe”. New owners, if they wish to develop the garden further, will benefit from the fact that it has dual-gated pedestrian access and a large detached garage which could also be converted, subject to planning.
For golf enthusiasts, Milltown Golf Club is across the road, with supermarkets, pharmacies and schools all within walking distance. It is also close to the Luas, so owners can be in the city centre in about 15 minutes.
The owner is moving for the very best of reasons: she has fallen in love, and has placed her four-bedroom home – in turnkey condition with a Ber of D2 – on the market through Hunter’s Estate Agents seeking €1.095 million.
