Photograph 1 of 21 of 2 The Innings, Observatory Lane, Rathmines, Dublin 6
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2 The Innings, Observatory Lane, Rathmines, Dublin 6D06D4Y4

€395,000

2 Bed~1 Bath~46 m²~BER C

What you'll like:

  • Prime Dublin 6 Location: Situated in the heart of vibrant Rathmines, providing immediate walking access to an exceptional array of trendy cafes, restaurants, bars, and essential retail conveniences.
  • Excellent Public Transport: Within comfortable walking distance of multiple Dublin Bus routes and the LUAS Green Line in nearby Ranelagh, ensuring fast, reliable city-wide commutes.
  • Picturesque Cricket Club Views: Features a private balcony overlooking the scenic Leinster Cricket Club grounds, offering a peaceful green outlook that is rare for such a central urban location.
  • Secure Gated Development: Tucked away inside a private gated complex, enhancing overall personal security and peace of mind while filtering out unwanted street foot traffic.
  • Dedicated Car Parking: Includes ample secure car parking within the development grounds, which represents an extremely valuable and sought-after commodity for any vehicle owner in Dublin 6.
  • Dual Bedroom Balcony Access: Both private bedrooms benefit from direct physical access to the outdoor balcony, maximizing natural light ventilation and seamless outdoor connectivity from private quarters.
  • Efficient Compact Layout: Cleverly proportioned interior layout extending across 46 square meters, making it exceptionally well-suited for first-time buyers seeking manageable heating and maintenance overheads.
  • Separate Storage Facility: Equipped with a dedicated standalone storage room within the apartment, resolving common space-clutter issues typically associated with compact urban properties of this size.
  • Established Neighborhood Demand: Located in one of Dublin's most perennially popular and stable residential neighborhoods, supporting strong long-term capital appreciation and robust sustained rental demand profiles.
  • Proximity to Rathgar and Ranelagh: Bordering the affluent neighboring villages of Ranelagh and Rathgar, significantly expanding the lifestyle, boutique shopping, and leisure options available right on your doorstep.
  • Walkability to Retail Hubs: Positioned just minutes away from the Swan Shopping Centre and major local supermarkets, making weekly grocery shopping and daily errands entirely effortless without a car.
  • Turnkey Investment Potential: Perfectly structured layout and location appeal strongly to residential property investors looking for strong rental yields in a proven, high-demand rental corridor.
  • Private Rear Aspect Orientation: The bedroom disposition towards the rear ensures a quieter living experience away from main street noises, preserving privacy and domestic tranquility.
  • Open-Plan Living Flow: Smooth functional transition from the welcoming entrance living room directly through to an open-plan kitchen area, facilitating a modern and sociable lifestyle configuration.
  • Manageable Footprint: Offers an affordable entry price point into a premium postal code where detached or larger family housing options remain entirely out of reach.
  • Active Social Infrastructure: Surrounded by local cinemas, sports clubs, gyms, and cultural venues in Rathmines village, ensuring a vibrant and engaging community lifestyle for residents.
  • Direct City Access: Central Dublin is easily reachable on foot or via a short bicycle ride, helping residents save significantly on monthly public transport or taxi expenditures.
  • Desirable C Energy Rating: Holds a C BER rating, which indicates moderate energy efficiency while leaving clear opportunities for a buyer to upgrade insulation or heating systems.
  • Private Setting Atmosphere: Despite its ultra-central urban coordinates, the development maintains a tucked-away atmosphere that shields residents from the heavy bustle of the main strip.
  • Strong Resale Liquidity: Two-bedroom properties in secure Dublin 6 gated developments historically experience high liquidity and brisk demand whenever they reappear on the local property market.

But keep in mind:

  • Compact Floor Area: Measuring approximately 46 square meters, the overall footprint is quite small, which could feel restrictive for long-term couples or those requiring extensive home-office space.
  • Moderate Energy Rating: The C BER rating means energy performance is only average, and the buyer should investigate potential upgrade costs to achieve higher modern efficiency standards.
  • Single Bathroom Configuration: Features only one bathroom serving both bedrooms, creating potential morning bottlenecks or convenience issues when hosting guests or living as a pair.
  • Potential Management Fees: As a secure gated apartment development, annual service charges will apply, and the buyer must verify current fee amounts, sinking fund health, and inclusions.
  • Small Second Bedroom: Measuring roughly 2.99m x 2.71m, the second bedroom is compact and may function best as a home office, nursery, or single guest room rather than a spacious double.
  • Limited Kitchen Dimensions: The kitchen area is tightly proportioned at around 2.54m x 2.00m, potentially restricting extensive culinary equipment installations or large cabinet storage capacities.
  • Balcony Maintenance Liabilities: Buyers should check the development covenants to understand individual versus communal maintenance responsibilities regarding balcony structures and decking longevity.
  • Urban Noise Exposure: Although set back on a lane, proximity to central Rathmines nightlife and traffic routes means prospective buyers should inspect the property during peak evening hours.
  • Lack of Lift Infrastructure: Depending on which floor this specific unit sits on within the building, buyers should verify stair access requirements for heavy shopping or mobility considerations.
  • Gated Access Maintenance: Mechanical security gates can occasionally break down or incur high repair levies, and the buyer's solicitor should check past maintenance track records.
  • Parking Space Allocation: The listing mentions ample parking, but the buyer must verify whether this specific unit holds a designated, legally deeded parking space or operates on a permit system.
  • Future Development Surroundings: Buyers should check local planning registers to ensure upcoming commercial or residential projects in Rathmines village will not obstruct views or light.
  • Restricted Expansion Potential: Due to its apartment structure and finite square meterage, physical structural extensions or major layout expansions are virtually impossible without body corporate approval.
  • Communal Area Upkeep: The condition and responsiveness of management companies regarding common hallway cleaning, lighting, and landscaping require careful pre-purchase due diligence.
  • Insurance Premium Trends: Multi-unit apartment developments across Ireland have faced rising building insurance premiums in recent years, which can directly influence annual service charge hikes.
  • Ventilation and Condensation: Compact modern or retrofitted apartments can occasionally experience internal condensation challenges, meaning buyers should inspect for window seals and extractor performance.
  • Pet Ownership Restrictions: Many gated apartment complexes in Dublin enforce strict by-laws regarding pets, so buyers with domestic animals must verify building management rules beforehand.
  • Limited Private Green Space: Aside from the small balcony, there is no private garden area, relying entirely on nearby public parks or the adjacent club grounds for open-air leisure.
  • Resale Market Sensitivity: Smaller apartments can sometimes be more sensitive to broader mortgage interest rate fluctuations affecting first-time buyer borrowing power and market velocity.
  • Waste Management Logistics: Buyers should check how refuse disposal, recycling bins, and organic waste collection are organized and managed within the gated communal courtyard layout.

Build Analysis

What we know from similar construction types

  • The property is a two-bedroom apartment within a secure gated development extending to approximately 46 square meters, which is a relatively compact floor area.
  • Both bedrooms feature direct access to the balcony and a rear aspect overlooking the adjoining cricket club, but a buyer should verify natural light levels and ventilation efficiency in these rooms.
  • The layout includes an open-plan kitchen and a separate storage room, though a physical inspection is recommended to assess built-in storage adequacy and kitchen utility configurations.
  • As an apartment within a managed development, a buyer should investigate annual service charges, management company financial health, sinking fund provisions, and any planned structural or external maintenance works.

Heating cost*

Estimated expense to heat this property every year

  • €600 to €950 per year.
  • Estimated based on the compact 46 m² floor area and a C energy rating, assuming typical occupant heating patterns and current standard energy tariffs. The buyer should verify the exact heating system type and efficiency during pre-purchase inspections.

Pollution Safe

9/10

Environmental situation to investigate

  • The property is situated in an established urban residential neighborhood well removed from heavy industrial zones, major waste incinerators, or active landfills.
  • Any historical urban legacy pollution concerns in the broader inner suburb are typical of high-density city living and generally low impact for standard residential occupation.

Flood Safe

8/10

Water overflow reports to follow up

  • The general Rathmines area maintains a strong baseline flood safety profile, though buyers should verify local drainage parameters relative to any subterranean or lower-level elements nearby.
  • Proximity to the Grand Canal catchment means buyers should check specific local strategic flood risk assessments for complete peace of mind.

Recent Local Sales

Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years

Sales on the same street or estate

  • 6 OBSERVATORY LANE, RATHMINES, DUBLIN 6

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €940,000.00
  • 3 OBSERVATORY LANE, RATHMINES, DUBLIN 6

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €560,000.00
  • 1 OBSERVATORY LANE, RATHMINES, DUBLIN 6

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €560,000.00
  • 2 OBSERVATORY LANE, RATHMINES, DUBLIN 6

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €560,000.00
  • 5 OBSERVATORY COURT, OBSERVATORY LANE, RATHMINES DUBLIN 6

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €820,000.00

Recent sales in the wider Rathmines area

  • 19 NORTHBROOK WALK, RANELAGH, DUBLIN 6

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €850,000.00
  • 1 EASTMORE, BUSHY PARK RD, RATHGAR DUBLIN 6

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €580,000.00
  • 101 SANDFORD RD, RANELAGH, DUBLIN 6

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €1,250,000.00
  • 21 SANDYFORD RD, RANELAGH, DUBLIN 6

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €2,200,000.00
  • 284 LR KIMMAGE RD, DUBLIN 6, DUBLIN

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €560,000.00

Source: Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA), Residential Property Price Register (PPR).

Matching uses address information published by the PPR rather than measured map distance. It may omit nearby properties on differently named streets.

Last Sale

A confidently matched previous PPR transaction for this property

No confidently matched previous sale was found in the Property Price Register.

Buyer fees*

Associated expenses guide

  • Stamp duty: €3,950, calculated as 1% of the €395,000 asking price.
  • Solicitor legal fees: €1,800 to €3,000 plus VAT (23%), totaling approximately €2,200 to €3,700 for conveyancing and legal outlays.
  • Land registration fees: €400 to €800 payable to Tailte Éireann depending on the exact property value tier.
  • Property valuation fees: €150 to €300 for a mortgage valuation report.
  • Surveyor fees: €300 to €600 depending on the scope of the structural survey.
  • Annual home insurance: €350 to €700 depending on the policy level and provider.

Forum Talk

What people are saying about this area

  • Locals on neighborhood forums frequently praise Rathmines for its exceptional walkability, vibrant café culture, and convenience to the city centre.
  • Residents often highlight the peaceful, leafy views over the adjacent Leinster Cricket Club as a major hidden perk of living on Observatory Lane.
  • Discussions regarding traffic note that while the location is heavily connected by bus routes and the nearby LUAS, local peak-hour congestion can be significant.
  • Community boards frequently mention ongoing demand for well-located apartments in secure developments due to strong appeal among first-time buyers and investors.

LifeFit Assessment

How well this property may suit your lifestyle

Family

7 areas
  • Young Children

    At 46 square metres with two bedrooms and one bathroom, the compact layout and apartment setting provide very limited space for young children to play and store belongings.

    3/10
  • Teenagers

    The limited floor area of 46 square metres lacks individual privacy or personal hangout zones, making it a tight fit for teenagers.

    3/10
  • Multi-generational Living

    A two-bedroom apartment measuring only 46 square metres is completely unsuitable for multi-generational living due to a severe lack of space and independent living areas.

    1/10
  • Single Buyers

    The property size and vibrant urban location in Rathmines make this an ideal low-maintenance home or first-time purchase for single buyers.

    9/10
  • Couples

    Well-suited for couples looking for an accessible, central city base with two bedrooms, provided they are comfortable with compact apartment living.

    8/10
  • Empty Nesters

    Offering single-level layout convenience and a secure gated setting close to local amenities, though downsizing to 46 square metres means shedding significant possessions.

    7/10
  • Retirees

    The secure gated development and proximity to local services are appealing, but buyers should verify floor accessibility and lift options if stairs are a concern.

    6/10

Work

3 areas
  • Remote Working

    The 46 square metre floor area means working from home would likely require using a bedroom or living area space rather than having a dedicated home office.

    5/10
  • Hybrid Commuting

    Superb connectivity with numerous Dublin Bus routes and the LUAS Green Line nearby makes commuting into the city centre highly convenient.

    9/10
  • Retired

    Retirees can benefit from a secure gated environment and walkability to local shops, provided the apartment floor level matches their mobility needs.

    7/10

Practical

8 areas
  • Ageing in Place

    Single-level accommodation is helpful, but buyers should investigate building accessibility, elevator access, and step counts for long-term comfort.

    5/10
  • Low Maintenance

    A compact 46 square metre apartment footprint combined with a managed gated development ensures minimal exterior and interior upkeep.

    9/10
  • Secure Gated Entry

    Tucked away inside a secure gated development with ample secure car parking.

    10/10
  • Minimalist Design

    The efficient layout naturally encourages a minimalist lifestyle due to limited square footage and a dedicated storage room.

    9/10
  • Flexible Floor Plans

    With a fixed 46 square metre layout featuring an open-plan kitchen/living space and two tight bedrooms, flexibility for structural changes is minimal.

    4/10
  • Heritage Home

    Appears to be a standard modern or contemporary apartment development rather than a period heritage residence.

    2/10
  • Ecological Setup

    The property holds a BER rating of C, meaning energy efficiency is average and could potentially benefit from future upgrades.

    5/10
  • Outdoor areas

    Features a private balcony overlooking a cricket club, providing a pleasant outdoor view, though it lacks a full private garden.

    4/10

Interests

9 areas
  • Gardening

    There is no private garden space, only a small balcony overlooking a cricket club.

    2/10
  • Walking

    Excellent destination walking with vibrant nearby neighborhoods like Ranelagh and Rathgar easily accessible on foot.

    8/10
  • Gym

    The central location offers great proximity to various commercial fitness centres and wellness facilities in the surrounding area.

    8/10
  • Cycling

    Flat city terrain makes cycling into Dublin city centre feasible, though urban traffic requires caution.

    7/10
  • Golf

    While urban living is prioritized, local golf clubs require a short drive or public transit trip out from the inner suburbs.

    4/10
  • Fishing

    The location offers no immediate access to rivers or fishing spots.

    1/10
  • Horse Riding

    An inner-city apartment setting with no equestrian facilities nearby.

    1/10
  • Water Sports

    Inland location remote from major water sports facilities, requiring travel toward Dublin Bay for coastal activities.

    2/10
  • Entertaining

    The open-plan kitchen and living room setup is quite compact at 46 square metres, restricting large indoor gatherings, though the balcony offers a pleasant backdrop.

    4/10

Lifestyle

5 areas
  • Quiet Living

    While tucked away in a private setting overlooking a cricket club, it is still situated in the bustling heart of Rathmines, meaning some urban background noise is inevitable.

    6/10
  • Rural Living

    Located in a densely populated urban and suburban neighbourhood of Dublin with zero rural characteristics.

    1/10
  • Village Living

    Rathmines provides a distinct urban-village feel with local shops, cafes, and restaurants all within immediate walking distance.

    8/10
  • Coastal Living

    The property is inland in Dublin 6 with no proximity to the coast or marine environments.

    1/10
  • Urban Living

    Positioned right in the heart of Rathmines with exceptional access to Dublin city centre, public transport, and endless amenities.

    10/10

Social

6 areas
  • Community Involvement

    Apartment living offers standard community interaction through management entities, while the broader Rathmines area has active local groups.

    6/10
  • Café Culture

    Rathmines village features an exceptional selection of cafes, restaurants, and eateries literally on the doorstep.

    10/10
  • Nightlife

    Surrounded by popular bars, pubs, and entertainment options within Dublin 6.

    9/10
  • Health/Wellness groups

    Easy access to numerous local pilates & stretching studios, gyms, and health classes in Rathmines and Ranelagh.

    8/10
  • Networking Opportunities

    Proximity to Dublin city centre ensures excellent professional networking avenues and events.

    8/10
  • Tech-Hub Connectivity

    Short transit times to major tech employers and hubs spread across Dublin city centre and the canals.

    8/10

Listing information

Original listing
View on agent website
Published on HouseDelve
1 September 2026
Correction
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Property reference: HD-C5D86DHouseDelve · Republic of Ireland

Estimate — not advice. Actual costs and outcomes can vary materially. Obtain current quotations and professional advice before making financial or property decisions.