Sylvan setting in Rathgar

• Published date: 25 May 2023
• Publication title: Irish Times (Dublin, Ireland)

Highfield Grove is a small residential enclave just off Highfield Road in Rathgar. While it's a serene part of Dublin 6, it's well served by a number of Dublin Bus routes and is just a 15-minute walk to the Luas green line stop at Cowper. Schoolchildren pass along the surrounding roads on their bikes from nearby Muckross Park, Gonzaga and St Mary's

The Orchard was built in 1990 in the style of a Regency-era villa. Tucked away behind a stone wall and electric gates, the double-fronted 251sq m (2701sq ft) property is built in a C-shape with two wings extending into its beautifully maintained landscaped gardens.

The front door is topped by a fanlight and opens into a tiled porch and entrance hall, where steps lead off to the wings. The elegant drawingroom is on the right, with a marble fireplace, a large bay window looking out into the central courtyard and steps leading down to a large sunroom that is surrounded by the greenery of the well-planted gardens. There is also a WC and cloakroom on this side of the property. The expansive eat-in kitchen lies to the back of the house. Facing east, it has silestone countertops, handsome oak cabinets and Miele appliances. French doors open on to a terrace bordered by an old stone wall that makes a perfect spot for summer breakfasts, while back inside there is a relaxed living area with fitted shelving. A large utility lies off the kitchen, with extra shelving and storage and its own access to the back garden.

A feature of this house is the use of curved walls that add interest and character to what might otherwise be simple, boxy extensions. The four bedrooms are in the left wing of the house, as is the family bathroom, which has a lovely mosaic-tile feature.

All of the...