Grand design in former convent aimed at down-sizer market

BLACKROCK House is a landmark 18th century building in Cork’s Blackrock village, recently beautifully restored to 27 luxury apartments and penthouses which have just come to the market. Formerly the site of the Ursuline Convent, it is set in a private gated development accessed by a tree-lined avenue. The project includes one-, two- and three-bed apartments. Many of the original Georgian features have been retained in the apartments, which were designed by O’Mahony Pike Architects, and range in size from approximately 54sqm to 236sqm. There are eight one-bed units, 16 two-beds and three three-bed penthouses. Each apartment has a unique layout and includes high ceilings, sliding sash windows, intricate cornicing and architraves and timber floors. Helen Roden of Merrion Square Interiors, who were involved in the project, says, “Everyone’s getting quite a unique space. It’s not a sort of cookie-cutter block.” Prices range from €220,000 to €455,000. There is lift access and the common areas retain original stained-glass windows. Interest has been strong, especially from those trading down within the area, says Lisney’s residential manager, Trish Stokes. Blackrock village is one of Cork’s most established suburbs, only 3km from the city centre and beside the marina, offering the potential for riverside walks. It is home to some of Cork’s finest period, detached properties, exactly the kind of high-maintenance home that can become difficult for the older adult, particularly as mobility decreases. “Very little new development has happened here given the constraints on land banks available,” says Trish. “So Blackrock House certainly offers an opportunity for those looking to trade down within the area.”