In recent years buyers relocating to Greenfield, the small estate off the N11 opposite the Nutley Lane entrance to RTÉ, have tended to do either of two things, they have embarked on an extensive renovation programme or have completely levelled the house for a grander rebuild – the latter being an indication that this Dublin 4 enclave is considered a prime location

The owners of 5 Greenfield Crescent – now downsizing – did a major renovation 20 years ago changing the style, size and layout of their detached two-storey property on a third of an acre. To suit their needs they incorporated a self-contained “granny flat” into the build at ground level, a useful one-bedroom unit that opens out to the side of the house and also into the hall; buyers could also use this for an older child or an au pair.

The four-bedroom house is set over 420sq m (4,520sq ft) of space so the rooms are large and the link areas – the entrance hall and the landing – are particularly spacious. There’s also a vast converted attic accessed via a spiral staircase (and not counted in the measurements) that the family uses as a home office, which would make a good games room or home cinema.

Upstairs the main bedroom is a suite with its own bathroom and extensive built-in wardrobe and it opens out on to a deep balcony overlooking the back garden. There are three further double bedrooms one with an en suite bathroom and two of them also open out to the balcony. An attractive feature of the large family bathroom is the wood-panelled walls – also seen at attic level.

At hall level – which is floored with oversized creamy coloured stone tiles – there is a fine reception room running the depth of the house, with a bay window to the front and opening out to the back garden; a smaller family room again with access to the garden and an eat-in kitchen. A modern bright space, it is fitted with a glossy grey contemporary kitchen and there is an adjacent utility room.

The back garden is a real beauty – private, mature and not overlooked it has been thoughtfully planted for colour and variety; professionally maintained it is looking its very best at the moment. The rear garden backs on to UCD’s grounds, beyond a fringe of mature trees. There is parking for several cars to the front. Number 5 Greenfield Crescent, Donnybrook, is for sale through Lisney for €2.75 million.