Far too often attempts to copy period house styles result in poor pastiche, a mockery of the original style. At Rathsnagadan Lodge, a 237sq m (2,550sq ft) property nestled into the Nore Valley in Co Kilkenny, the stylistic imitation is convincing. It is all down to one factor – attention to detail.

In 2000, solicitor Michael Walsh and his partner Dr Des Crowley purchased seven acres close to Inistioge village. A year later the Regency-style house was complete. The couple designed the property themselves with the help of Crowley's mother Gladys. "She had done years of research – even down to a grid copybook to get the perfect design, which she herself had intended to build in Cork, but we got all the benefits of her years of planning," says Walsh.

The interiors are a blend of old and new; blocks were used internally so all the walls with 10ft ceilings are straight, but the doors from a local salvage yard, and two period fireplaces, a Regency and Victorian, help to give an older feel to the property which is in turnkey condition.

“The doors are absolutely imperfect – and that was exactly what we wanted” and they marry well with antiques throughout the house.

French windows

All the windows are wooden sash by Kennington Joinery, and brush inserts give a C1 energy rating. In addition, there are five sets of French windows which spill out on to various patios around the property.

The three-bed property, centred off a wide hallway, has two reception rooms and a large kitchen-cum-breakfast room to the rear.

The gardens include a parterre, with various topiaries adding interest.

Walsh and Crowley have moved to Dublin, and have placed their fine home on the market through joint agents Colliers International and Anne Carton with PN O'Gorman with an asking price of €695,000.