A glorious revival
Sensitive and spectacular restoration has breathed new life into Victorian pile with a modern aesthetic and sea views
Abbeylands is one of a number of large homes built in Victorian times by the most senior ranks of the British military who gravitated to the south Dublin suburb of Killiney, attracted no doubt by its winding wooded avenues, long beach, sea views and natural parks – all of which continue to make it the playground of today’s superrich.
The owners are an Irish family who have lived there for nine years, upgrading the property in spectacular fashion from the down-at-heel and rather sad condition they found it in. The owner is an interior designer and immediately spotted its potential. She was keen to create a sleek, contemporary environment that would reinstate the original grandeur of the building but, above
all, be comfortable and easy to live in. That ambition has been well and truly achieved.
The necessary structural work was completed before the glamorous fixtures and fittings could be installed. The lopsided staircase had to be secured; plumbing, wiring, damp proofing and roof repairs were all carried out too. A large extension to what is now a 418sq.m/4,500sq.ft house was added to provide a breakfast area, sunroom and study, enhancing the space and flow expected these days of a house of this size.
As the building work progressed, the restoration project clicked into action. The old floorboards were repaired and polished to a warm honey glow. The huge sliding sash windows and shutters were repaired and painted, ornate plasterwork carefully reinstated and original fireplaces polished to reveal their former grandeur.
The finish complements the restored structure perfectly. The Danish Design kitchen is a contemporary classic, the polished cupboards with marble worktop and marble tiled floor creating a calm and light-filled space.
In the bedrooms, study and landing, handmade bookcases and wardrobes make simple statements without interrupting the sense of space.
The atmosphere is set as soon as you open the hall door. Traditional chequerboard marble tiles stretch back to the staircase, emphasising the sheer size of the house.
Accommodation is ranged over three floors. The drawing room and dining room are on either side of the hall, with the kitchen, breakfast room and sunroom wrapping around the formal sitting room which captures wonderful views over the rooftops to Killiney Bay and Bray Head beyond. There is also a family room on this level.
On the hall return there is a large bedroom, two bathrooms and a fantastic den with a vaulted ceiling, windows on three walls and access to the roof – an ideal teenage retreat. Upstairs again are four more very spacious bedrooms.
As this is a listed house, all the renovations have been carried out in consultation with the local council. There is also planning permission to extend to the side.
The two-tiered back garden can be accessed from all the downstairs rooms and at the end of the gravel drive are gates with intercom.The Dart station and beach are a short walk away.
Agent: Lisney (01) 280 6820.