In the heart of Cork, a five-bedroom home has been transformed into a modern sanctuary, blending high-end finishes with a seamless connection to the outdoors. This property, located on Rochestown Rd, is a testament to thoughtful renovation, where every detail has been meticulously considered. With a price tag of €695,000, it offers a spacious 165 sq m (1,776 sq ft) of living space, ensuring there's never a shortage of room for relaxation or entertainment.
The owners, who purchased the house in 2013, initially lived there for a few years, gradually identifying what worked and what didn't for their lifestyle. This led them to embark on a 10-month ground floor refurbishment in 2022, with a vision to create a more practical living space that seamlessly integrated indoor and outdoor areas. Their brief to builder Steve Marsh was clear: expand the kitchen/dining area, create a wraparound window, and incorporate custom-built banquette seating. The result is a vaulted ceiling with ample natural light, a design choice that was particularly important to Belinda, an Australian owner, who was keen to maximize the light in the space.
The kitchen, designed by Julie Ludgate, is a masterpiece of modern functionality. A downducted extractor on the island worktop, suggested by Ludgate, provides a clean, modern look without the noise typically associated with overhead ventilation fans. This detail, along with the selection of Hague Blue for the banquette area and Green Smoke by Farrow and Ball for the kitchen, showcases the owners' attention to detail and their desire for a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere. High-end features, such as a brass Quooker tap, brass sink, and Bora hob, further enhance the showhouse vibe.
The open-plan living space is a key feature, offering flexibility for both social gatherings and quiet moments. The sliding window to the back garden, a practical addition, has become an essential part of the home, whether for passing treats to children or serving drinks to friends. The House of Heat Polaris 1000 electric fireplace adds a cozy touch, while the Herringbone Amtico flooring across the ground floor provides a unified and elegant feel.
The gardens, landscaped by Sublime Landscaping in 2016, are designed for low-maintenance living, allowing the owners to enjoy their time abroad without worry. Tree ferns, palm trees, and lilies create a dappled light effect across the patio and synthetic lawn, while the huge field at the end of the road provides a safe and inviting space for the children to play.
Upstairs, the main bedroom boasts an ensuite and a Joule high-pressure hot water system, ensuring comfort and convenience. Two of the five bedrooms are doubles, providing ample space for the family. The property is also noted for its excellent energy efficiency, thanks to EnviroBead cavity wall insulation.
In my opinion, this thoughtfully renovated home is a shining example of how a well-designed space can enhance daily life. The seamless integration of indoor and outdoor areas, combined with high-end finishes and a focus on natural light, creates a truly inviting and comfortable living environment. Every day's a g'day at this Cork home, indeed!
