Clontarf’s 19th Century Villa Reinvented for Modern Living

A historic villa in Clontarf, Dublin, has undergone a remarkable transformation, combining 19th-century architecture with contemporary design. The property, located at 16 Vernon Avenue, is now on the market for €1.445 million, showcasing a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.

Karen Crawford and her partner Gary Cooper first arrived in Ireland from Australia in the late 1990s. They sought a home that would allow them to incorporate aspects of their Aussie lifestyle into the Irish capital. Initially, they owned a modest house in Marino but wanted a larger space that would be conducive to entertaining and enjoying the outdoors.

Crawford, who previously owned a fashion outlet in Dublin, and Cooper, a quantity surveyor with a background in architecture, discovered the villa, which originally spanned approximately 970 square feet. They envisioned a home that would surprise visitors with its spaciousness and light. With the help of an architect friend, they added 940 square feet to the existing structure, creating a stunning open-plan living space.

Architectural Innovations and Design Features

The design of the villa incorporates an abundance of glass, including floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Crawford describes the effect as akin to entering a “tardis,” where the unexpected spaciousness takes guests by surprise. The house features a striking atrium and a sculptural oak staircase that connects various levels, while some ceilings reach heights of 5.4 meters.

A concrete fireplace, measuring 1.5 meters thick and 6 meters tall, serves as a dramatic focal point in the main living area. The design avoids the conventional glass box extension, opting instead for angular forms that contrast with softer curves. A central courtyard, planted with black bamboo, adds a touch of nature and ambiance, particularly at night.

Crawford emphasizes the importance of the kitchen, which is designed for entertaining and features a large island for cooking demonstrations. This space reflects Cooper’s Australian heritage, inspired by the expansive skies along the Great Ocean Road.

Outdoor Spaces and Community Connection

The property’s outdoor areas also reflect their desire to create an inviting environment. A small lawn at the front allows for barefoot enjoyment, while the back garden is filled with tropical plants and sea grasses. Crawford appreciates the location for its views of Howth and Dublin’s northern coastline, enhancing the sense of community they sought when choosing Clontarf.

Originally a three-bedroom home, the villa now features two bedrooms on the upper level and one on the lower ground floor. The lower level opens directly onto the sunken garden, which Crawford affectionately refers to as a “party pit garden.” This space is ideal for barbecues and outdoor relaxation, complemented by an elevated dining area that captures the evening sun.

Throughout the house, a careful selection of materials contributes to a warm, durable environment. The interiors boast American oak herringbone parquet floors, Portuguese limestone, and a Poggenpohl kitchen equipped with premium appliances. Notably, three original fireplaces remain in the front portion of the home, harmonizing with the contemporary features added during the renovation.

As the couple prepares for a new chapter, with their daughter Ruby living in France, they are looking for a smaller, more manageable home while remaining close to the area they love. Crawford expresses a desire to explore different possibilities but acknowledges their strong connection to Dublin.

The villa at 16 Vernon Avenue stands as a testament to how contemporary design can beautifully coexist with historical architecture. It offers potential buyers not just a home, but a unique living experience that elegantly bridges the gap between past and present. Grimes is handling the sale, seeking €1.445 million for this extraordinary property.