Number 3 Vergemount, a five-bay three-storey property, across the road from Clonskeagh Hospital, is essentially a new build masquerading as a period property. It was auctioned in 2005 – the AMV was €1.5 million, and it was bought by a developer who demolished the entire house with the exception of the façade.
Now the 372sq m house, which is behind electric gates and high walls, comes with all modern conveniences while still retaining the feel of a period property.
No expense has been spared with the interiors. The kitchen, at garden level has four sets of French doors leading out to the garden. The Gaggenau appliances, which in addition to a large American-style fridge-freezer, include a dual zone wine cooler and drinks fridge and cost in excess of €30,000. Carcasses are all solid and custom-made by Patrick Canavan of Dungannon and fronted by a mixture of solid walnut and hand-painted hardwoods.
Flooring throughout is a mixture of hardwood and crema Marfil warmed underfoot by individual room thermostats.
There is a plethora of options for formal dining and drawing rooms as the house enjoys four formal rooms – two at garden level and two at hall level. If one was to find a fault it would be that the ceilings at hall level lack the height found in many period houses.
An interesting feature is the curved extension to the rear, with bow windows at each level, giving an interesting twist to the formal rooms while also flooding the rooms with light.
The property has five bedrooms – and an option for a sixth with the current layout.
There are two master suites on the top floor – both with lavish travertine bathrooms, and three fine sized rooms at hall level.
The garage is fitted out as a gym. With mirrored walls and rubberised flooring it offers a space for private pilates or yoga tuition.
The formal gardens, designed by Donnybrook Landscaping, are laid out with Indian sandstone patios and neat beds of hydrangea, agapanthus and lavender framed by box hedging.
Bergins is seeking €4 million for the property which is close to Donnybrook and Ranelagh. In a similar price bracket within Dublin, Wilford at 591sq m on seven acres in Shankill is seeking €4.35 million, and 25 Raglan Road with 404sq m is seeking €4.15 million. In Killiney, Palermo on one acre and with 435sq m is asking €4 million.
It is an ambitious price, but no expense has been spared with the interiors, and it would suit a family who wish to have a period home without the headaches of renovation.
