Agonising Over the Perfect Home: €785,000 Architect’s Home Has ‘Secret’ Riverside Deck in Cork City

House-hunting can be a daunting task. The pressure to find the perfect space with the right amount of light and a functional layout can be overwhelming. After all, buying a home is one of the biggest investments we make in our lives. So, it’s always a relief to find a property that was thoughtfully designed by a professional. And in the case of 2 Inniscarrig Terrace on Cork City’s Western Road, the previous owner just happens to be an architect.

Working with the Heritage

When the director of Meitheal Architects purchased the house in 2007, it was in a state of disarray. Divided into nine student bedrooms, the house needed a complete overhaul. But the owner recognized its potential, especially from an architectural perspective. The room proportions were perfect, and the house shared architectural motifs with other historic buildings in Cork. It was a Henry H Hill house, dating back to 1887, and had the bones of a beautiful period townhouse.

A Prime Location

One of the major draws of 2 Inniscarrig Terrace is its prime location. Situated near the main entrance to University College Cork (UCC) and surrounded by amenities such as cafes, bars, and quality student accommodation, the house offers easy access to the best that Cork City has to offer. With UCC right on the doorstep, Fitzgerald’s Park nearby for leisurely walks, and the River Lee Hotel gym next door, residents have everything they need within reach. The city centre, including the English Market, Mercy University Hospital, and local scout club, is just a few minutes away.

A Hidden Gem: The Riverside Deck

But perhaps the most compelling feature of No 2 is its riverside garden. Tucked away at the rear of the house, the garden has been maximized for enjoyment with the addition of a large riverside deck. This deck, accessed through a walkway at the bottom of the landscaped garden, has been a favorite spot for BBQs and outdoor gatherings. During the lockdowns caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, it became an ideal place for kids to engage in “magnet-fishing,” pulling up rusted finds from the river for inspection. The deck, which cantilevers over the river, offers a tranquil and secluded space to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Meticulous Design Choices

The owner of No 2 ensured that every aspect of the house was designed with care and attention to detail. John Butler, the landscaper, collaborated with the owner to create a contemporary feel in the garden. The use of raised limestone beds, limestone paving, and railway sleepers adds a modern touch while contrasting with the period features of the house. The addition of a simple extension, a stylish kitchen/diner, was carefully placed in a way that preserved the integrity of the existing rear room. This approach allowed for maximum natural light and maintained the southerly aspect of the room.

Related Facts

• The house was originally laid out as nine student bedrooms.
• The architect owner recognized the potential of the house’s architectural features and room proportions.
• The house shares architectural motifs with other historic buildings in Cork.
• The house is located near UCC and amenities such as cafes, bars, and quality student accommodation.
• The riverside garden features a large deck that cantilevers over the river.
• The deck has been a popular spot for BBQs and outdoor gatherings.
• The garden was designed with raised limestone beds, limestone paving, and railway sleepers.
• The owner preserved the integrity of the original rear room by adding a simple extension.

Key Takeaway

2 Inniscarrig Terrace on Cork City’s Western Road is a prime example of a meticulously designed home. The architect owner took great care in preserving the period features of the house while adding modern touches to the garden. The riverside deck is a unique and hidden gem that offers a tranquil and private outdoor space. The house’s proximity to UCC and various amenities makes it an ideal location for families or professionals.

Conclusion

When it comes to finding the perfect home, having the expertise of an architect-owner can make all the difference. The thoughtful design choices, attention to detail, and integration of modern features can transform a house into a functional and beautiful space. 2 Inniscarrig Terrace is a prime example of how architecture and design can elevate the overall quality of a home. With its prime location, carefully designed garden, and hidden riverside deck, this house embodies the ideal combination of practicality and aesthetics.