Redbrick makeover in Dún Laoghaire for €445,000

While some househunters may balk at the idea of a house in disrepair, others see potential. It is worth looking at the previous brochure details for 9 Library Road in Dún Laoghaire to see the transformation of a down-at-heel redbrick to a brand-new, light-filled ergonomic layout.

The current owners purchased the 79sq m property in 2015 for €210,000, and engaged draftsman Liam Keane to redesign the interior. The only tell-tale sign that this is the same property is the exterior – now minus the weeds growing in the walls – and the address.

The new design has achieved a remarkable layout with clean, simple lines, lots of storage and an incredible amount of light – thanks to double glass doors in the kitchen and a large Velux upstairs.

Open-plan downstairs

Downstairs is completely open-plan with a living area to the front, running into a dining-cum-kitchen space. This opens out on to a maintenance-free small garden laid out with Indian sandstone and planters.

Upstairs are two fine bedrooms and a very generous bathroom – with a double shower and bath. The BER rating is B3 – achieved with good insulation, double-glazed windows and a stove which sits flush into the wall.

A wall of storage under the stairs allows the room to be clutter-free, as does a small walk-in wardrobe in the master bedroom.

Given its location, 9 Library Place would make a super first home or a very good alternative to a two-bedroom apartment – with the added bonus of a small garden.

Quillsen is seeking €415,000 for 9 Harbour Court (71sq m), and Sherry FitzGerald €375,000 for Adelphi Manor apartments (74sq m). Though slightly larger at 93sq m, 12 Marine Court is seeking €525,000 through Colliers and Savills lists 7 The Pavilion II (95sq m) at €400,000.

Lisney is seeking €445,000 for this period house in turnkey condition – located just a few minutes' walk from the centre of Dún Laoghaire.