Fortal on Killiney Road is typical of the substantial homes built in the southside suburb by the Victorians drawn by the seaside location, large secluded plots and the train for the workday commute into Dublin city centre. It probably once stood on a larger plot with outbuildings and the rest, although it still sits on an acre of mature grounds, its elevated site giving distant sea views.

It’s not a protected structure like many of its contemporaries in the neighbourhood, leading agent Lisney to suggest there is “potential for further development”. Probably though, given the demand for well-positioned family homes at this level of the market, it is more likely that the only development undertaken by buyers will be to update the house – its E1 energy rating gives a glimpse of what might be required – as well as possibly extending to the rear to enlarge the kitchen, and other improvements. The accommodation is spread over 382sq m (4,112sq ft) so it is a larger family home.

Fortal is listed as having seven bedrooms though as three of these are at basement level, viewers will probably focus on the four upstairs bedrooms and, in particular, the views enjoyed from the front rooms.

Down at hall level – the wide and welcoming hall is accessed via an inner porch – there are two principal reception rooms on either side, both with large multi-paned sash oriel windows which give the house its distinctive, pretty look. These gracious rooms have other original features including fine chimney pieces and decorative plasterwork.

To the rear on this level is the kitchen – updated in recent years – which opens out to a deck. There’s also a cosy family room. Whoever designed the house made several rooms dual aspect, always an attractive feature in these old properties

Down at basement level there are several rooms, those listed as bedrooms, as well as a sitting room and various utility rooms. This entire level will probably be reworked as part of the renovation as new owners think of how they want to use this substantial space.

The front garden is on two levels. A short flight of steps leads down to a large lawned area which in days gone by was a tennis court. A driveway sweeps from the side with parking to the front for several cars.

The owner, having spent 40 years in Fortal, is moving on, selling through Lisney with an asking price of €2.5 million.