The dimensions alone are a clear indication that No 62 Castlepark Road has been extended considerably and is not the modest bungalow it was when built in the 1930s. The detached property now has 324sq m (3,489sq ft) of accommodation with six double bedrooms spread over two floors, putting it in the sights of larger families with considerable budgets who are trading up. There are several similar-age bungalows along this road, most upgraded and extended over the years.
The prime location, between Dalkey and Sandycove villages, and their potential, has meant that these have long tended to be viewed not for downsizing but rather for the chance to extend and refurbish to make spacious homes for growing families. And they command the premium prices that the rest of the suburb attracts: No 62 is on the market through Sherry FitzGerald for €2.5 million.
The renovation was carried out by the owners in 2005, but from the pristine and up-to-date interior décor, in terms of paint colours and finishes, it’s clear there has been work undertaken regularly since then. The reorganisation of the existing accommodation at hall level placed the main bedroom to the front with an en suite; the second of the bedrooms on this floor is also to the front while the third is to the rear in the extension that runs the width of the house at the back.
Building out made space for a large and airy eat-in kitchen, with smart, grey-painted timber units and plenty of storage and prep space opening out both to the back garden and to an adjoining living room. There’s also a family room, with panelled walls, divided from the dining area by a panelled section with duel aspect contemporary gas fire.
Throughout this level, which is floored in walnut, there is underfloor heating. If new owners don’t need six bedrooms they could easily use one of the downstairs bedrooms as a spacious home office; the one to the rear opens directly out to the terrace and would be lovely place to work. In the 2005 scheme, this room was probably intended as a playroom for the then young children.
A small room off the hall, adjacent to the utility room, was designed as a small study but it now doubles as additional wardrobe space for the main bedroom.
Upstairs there are three more bedrooms, the largest one en suite, as well as a bathroom.
The owners clearly enjoy their 42 m (138 ft) mature rear garden; facing west, it features a substantial deck as well as a paved dining area, both covered by electric awnings. The gas fire, outdoor fridge, seating and barbecue hint at sociable use.
Out the front, there is parking for four or five cars on the gravel, behind electric timber gates. The house carries a BER of C1.
Homes on Castlepark Road carry a Dalkey or a Sandycove address depending where they are on this winding road. No 62 is Sandycove, is near the top of the road close to Barnhill Stores and within walking distance of Glenageary Dart Station.
