16 Vernon Avenue, Clontarf, Dublin 3

Description

Introduction
A Masterpiece of Light, Design and Heritage on Vernon Avenue.
Grimes Clontarf are thrilled to bring 16 Vernon Avenue to the market. This elegant Georgian treasure offers a rare opportunity to acquire a truly outstanding family home in the heart of Clontarf village. Beautifully blending timeless character with striking contemporary design, this exceptional property showcases modern architecture at its finest. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels and dramatic internal atrium walls flood the interior with natural light, creating a stylish and inviting living space that is both unique and functional, 16 Vernon Avenue is the ideal choice for those seeking a home that combines old charm with contemporary luxury.

History
Originally part of Lord Vernon’s 1854 estate, this Georgian terrace home has been reimagined into a contemporary family home of exceptional quality and style. Behind its historic façade lies a light-filled residence where timeless architecture meets modern living. In 2004, an architect was commissioned to transform the original four-room house into a spacious, elegant home that celebrates natural light, open-plan design and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Completed in 2007, the result is a unique residence where every detail enhances both daily life and entertaining.

The House
Crafted with enduring materials—American oak, Portuguese limestone, and expanses of glass—the interiors combine warmth with sophistication. A Poggenpohl kitchen with premium appliances anchors the open-plan space, complemented by bespoke finishes such as herringbone oak parquet floors, a feature concrete fireplace and B&B Italia wardrobes.

At the heart of the home is a dramatic “spine of light”—a soaring atrium over 5m high and almost 9m long—that draws sunlight deep into the house. Floor-to-ceiling Californian glass panels at the rear dissolve the boundary between interior and garden, framing views of mature trees and sky throughout the seasons. Ever changing skies viewed through a glazed roof/ atrium become part of the daily backdrop, creating a living environment that shifts beautifully with the seasons. The house was deliberately designed to minimise overlooking to adjacent properties, and maximise the ingress of natural light, ensuring privacy from all aspects, whilst maximising winter light ingress. At the heart of the living area, a six-metre concrete column subtly defines zones within the open plan. Housing an enclosed fireplace and a polished concrete hearth with integrated timber storage, it becomes both a functional and sculptural element. Oriented to the west, the fireplace captures the glow of long summer evenings, while in winter it transforms the space into a warm, inviting retreat.

Every space has been crafted for both intimacy and connection. Open-plan living areas flow seamlessly, anchored by a sculptural concrete fireplace and a Poggenpohl kitchen with premium appliances. Bedrooms are calm retreats, including a master suite approached by a light-framed bridge and complemented by a private planted lightwell. A sculptural oak staircase links these private rooms to the open-plan living area. Landscaped terraces, a sunken lower ground, and discreet lighting extend the living experience seamlessly into the garden – equally perfect for tranquil evenings or entertaining on a grand scale.

This is more than a home – it is a rare architectural statement. A place where history, design and lifestyle converge in one of Dublin’s most sought-after coastal neighbourhoods.

Location
Situated in the centre of Clontarf – a mature and settled area, the location is second to none. Clontarf Promenade and cycle track are across the road and Clontarf Village with its excellent selection of restaurants and boutiques is on your doorstep. The area is well- serviced by public transport – there is a quality bus corridor operating along the Clontarf Road providing efficient links to the City Centre. In addition to this, there are an abundance of excellent schools and sporting facilities in the immediate vicinity as well as St. Anne’s Park and Dollymount Strand.