Dublin 6: Just five three-bed houses and four apartments are all that's left for sale at St Anne's off Northbrook Road. Kate McMorrow reports.
When a new development almost sells out before the launch, it's worth checking out.
At St Anne's - a Park Developments' scheme off Northbrook Road in Dublin 6 - those in the know jumped in with deposits at the construction phase, well aware that interest would be keen. These are cutting-edge, top-range apartments and terraced houses of exceptional quality - the best yet from the respected Park Developments stable.
CB Hamilton Osborne King is opening show units at noon today for five three-bedroom houses and four apartments, all that remains for sale at St Annes at this stage.
In a period building that was formerly St Anne's Hospital and a stroll from Leeson Street, the location of this development is one of its greatest assets. Prices are on the steep side but, with a superb finish and location, this has not deterred buyers.
Three-bedroom houses cost from €1.25 million, one-bedroom apartments from €430,000, two-bed apartments from €575,000 and two-bed duplexes in the old building from €740,000.
Downsizing in this location usually means settling for a tiny mews or cramped townhouse. Anyone longing to swap a rambling period house with a heavy-maintenance garden will be delighted with the sheer space of the 172 sq m (1,854 sq ft) St Anne's houses.
The row of eight houses are tucked away to the rear of the former hospital on Northbrook Lane. Of rumbled brick and glass, with cobble and gravel front drives, their design by architect O'Mahony Pike optimises natural light by placing the main living areas at first floor level.
Large loft-style sittingrooms, equally large kitchen / diningrooms with every conceivable gadget and expensive fittings will impress. A white oak staircase with cleverly concealed lighting climbs to a huge loft-style sittingroom which is flooded with light.
The main focus is a modern white fireplace with an unusual cobble and driftwood gas fireplace. A wall of glass looks over a central Zen courtyard with a pebble fountain. Thick double doors open to a spacious kitchen/diningroom, also overhanging the courtyard.
Smooth-gliding Seimatic kitchen units in ivory have granite worktops, an island unit and a complete range of Neff appliances. The front door opens to a wide hall/study area with walnut storage and magnificent limestone flooring, which extends throughout the downstairs area. Underfloor heating has been installed.
Three bedrooms and three bathrooms complete the downstairs accommodation, all luxuriously fitted out and with good wardrobe provision. The L-shaped main bedroom looks out on the pretty courtyard.
The back door opens to a broad timber-decked terrace enclosed by cedar latticed fencing. As everywhere in this development, a full planting service is provided, with filled clay pots on the terraces.
Steps and a door access the central courtyard of St Anne's, where fountains and seating areas are surrounded by raised borders.
Just one large two-bedroom duplex unit remains in the former hospital building. Original period features were replicated by the builder and the impression is of a period home in pristine condition.
They are entered off a decked inner path, with flower tubs outside each door and a cosy village feel. The main bedroom takes up the entire top floor of the duplex, with a walk-in wardrobe and large en suite shower room.
Across the landing is the new building, where a two-bedroom and a one-bedroom apartment are still for sale. Standard features are the same as elsewhere around St Anne's, such as Junckers wood and limestone flooring and smart bathrooms. A south-facing balcony with access from the sittingroom and bedrooms is the advantage of these units.
Apartments and duplexes have the benefit of underground car-parking and lifts to all floors. The houses have driveway parking and pedestrian access through the main block onto Northbrook Road.
Viewing takes place today and Friday from noon to 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
