This captivating four bedroom residence was meticulously designed and restored by award-winning Ryan W Kennihan Architects and featured in the New Irish Architecture AAI Awards publication in 2007. The property manages to retain it historical character, while containing all the features and fixtures of a modern home which is what makes this property truly special.
The design of the house consists of two distinct parts, including the original 1940s cottage, which the owner initially intended to demolish and replace with a new structure. However due to the site's location in a restrictive Scenic Amenity Zone the local planning requirements dictated that the cottage must be retained.
Ryan W Kennihan Architects totally transformed this simple cottage with the seamless addition of two modern extensions at each gable end of the property, constructed in a highly sensitive and imaginative manner.
These new side extensions were kept low and finished externally in glossy black render and local cut limestone which allows the extension to blend into the natural surroundings by reflecting the lush natural foliage. In contrast the original front and rear of the cottage has been painted white which conveys the traditional image of a country cottage in the west of Ireland.
The most amazing sleek and modern interior awaits on entrance, a minimalist open plan design, this property is all about clean crisp lines and bringing the lush ever changing landscape into the home.
The cosy underfloor heating is amplified by the use of high shine gloss white painted concrete floors. These map the hallways in contrast to the use of indulgent walnut flooring in the living spaces. The clever use of cabinetry as walls effortlessly creates individual spaces and conceals closets, staircase to the first floor, desks, and a utility area.
To the left of the entrance foyer the hallway leads directly to the heart of the beautiful home in the original 1940s part of the house, a stunning kitchen with built-in units, ample dining space which includes a built-in dining bench, patio doors to a quaint courtyard, and single step leading down to a plush deep piled carpeted living area.
The living area is a haven of luxury, although an open plan concept the area feels warm, intimate, and cosy with the feature solid fuel insert fire taking centre stage. The living room boasts stunning views of the rear gardens and surrounding countryside with a full windowed wall and also patio doors to a private courtyard. Next to the fireplace, a hidden doorway gives access to an enclosed staircase to the first floor. Currently an open plan space it is ideal for use as a home office, games rooms, or children’s playroom.
Off the living room and kitchen, a further hallway with feature window seat overlooking the dining room's courtyard, gives access to two beautiful double bedrooms, both boasting stylish en suites and private courtyard or garden views through deep framed windows.
To the right of the entrance hallway the current owner uses the fourth bedroom as a music room and office space, cleverly divided by the use of a single step where a baby-grand piano comfortably sits.
The final part of the ground floor is dedicated to a master suite that would be envy of any five-star hotel's accommodation. The hallway to the bedroom area is lined with built-in wardrobes, the bedroom is spacious and bright with access to a private courtyard. The uber stylish en suite boasts a luxurious Jacuzzi bathtub with full sized window overlooking the private gardens, the perfect haven at the end of a busy day to relax looking at the moonlight sky.
Located off the N59 Galway to Clifden road the property is located a mere 5km southeast of Oughterard and sits on a mature site of circa 0.64 acre. With the property located closer to the front boundary the larger part of the site is to the rear allowing for private landscaped gardens boasting mature trees, stone walls, garden shed, views of the surround countryside and the hypnotic sounds of the Owenriff River which runs just beyond the site’s boundaries.
The front boundary wall is of local stone and is heavily planted with mature shrubs to give total privacy from passers-by. The driveway is gravelled and sweeps around to the rear of the property where the surprising rear façade is simply breathtaking with unexpected views and from this arrival point, you know you are in for a real treat.
Asking price is €495,000.
For more information contact DNG Martin O'Connor auctioneers at 091 866708.
