There had been plans to feature another property this week but when you’re writing a section called ‘Dream Home’ and a property like Emsworth comes on the market, you have to alter your plans.
That’s because this exceptionally restored Georgian residence on the Malahide Road in Kinsealy, Co Dublin, ticks just about every box you could imagine when it comes to desirable features in a dream home.
Emsworth offers an incredible 661sqm of living space on 17 acres of landscaped gardens, terraces, tennis court/sports pitch, floodlit padel court, heated outdoor swimming pool with jacuzzi and two BBQ and dining areas.
While there are many more features to run through, including its own 2 bed guest house and fully equipped gym with separate Pilates room, sauna and cold pludge, it is rare that a property comes on the market that seamlessly blends heritage and modern luxury.
Designed by James Gandon, the architect behind some of Dublin’s most iconic buildings including the Custom House, Four Courts and King’s Inns, Emsworth has huge architectural significance.
The estate, which is believed to be the only surviving Gandon-built villa in Ireland, remains a testament to the architect’s work, bearing many of his signature touches, such as its elegant symmetry and curved internal walls that soften the formality of its classical proportions. Despite its history and grandeur, however, it never feels intimidating.
The main house, following an extension in 2024, now has 661sq m (7,115sq ft) of accommodation set out over two floors. There is also a converted coach house and other outbuildings that have been fully restored and put to use.
Located just 12km from Dublin city centre and within close proximity to Dublin Airport, Emsworth extends to about 75 acres, of which roughly 58 acres of freehold agricultural land surrounding the house is leased on a long-term deal to Teagasc.
The elegant villa has been comprehensively renovated to an exceptional standard, achieving a seamless blend of period grandeur and modern living. Emsworth also contains a tunnel, believed to have been conceived by Gandon himself, which provides a discreet underground connection to the neighbouring Abbeville Estate. Now blocked at both ends, the tunnel remains a rare and historically significant feature and adds an intriguing layer to the property's rich heritage.
A recent extension designed by Henry J Lyons, one of Ireland's leading architectural practices, introduces light-filled spaces that connect the main house to the Guest House. These have been exquisitely designed and finished, enhancing the property's historic character while embracing contemporary style and comfort.
Set on about 17 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Emsworth enjoys a private yet accessible setting, approached via electric gates and a sweeping, tree-lined gravel driveway.
The mature grounds surrounding the house are a key feature, offering both privacy and a scenic rural backdrop, while also providing a wealth of amenities. These include formal gardens, two kilometres of woodland walks, an ornamental lake with a decked seating area, a floodlit padel court and sports pitch, as well as an outdoor heated swimming pool and jacuzzi with adjoining BBQ areas.
Additionally, the estate offers alternative accommodation options, including a magnificent two-bedroom Guest House, recently renovated to the same high standards as the main residence. The property is enveloped in a U-shape by about 58 acres of leased agricultural land, which surrounds the core estate and further enhances its exceptional privacy and security.
Emsworth presents a unique opportunity to acquire an exceptional combination of high-quality assets in a truly unrivalled setting, all within a highly accessible and central location.
Find out more about Emsworth via joint selling agents Sherry FitzGerald Country Homes and Savills Residential and Country Agency at www.myhome.ie/4945850.
The home gym
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