Cove Villa, 1A Lower Albert Road, Sandycove, Co. DublinA96A3T9
€1,695,000
3 Bed~3 Bath~152 m²~BER C
What you'll like:
- Prime coastal address: Situated on Lower Albert Road in Sandycove, the property offers immediate proximity to the seafront, the Forty Foot, and local swimming spots, enhancing daily lifestyle and long-term capital preservation.
- Architectural heritage: The handsome Victorian exterior features classic period detailing, giving the home strong visual character and timeless curb appeal that modern builds simply cannot replicate.
- Expertly remodeled layout: Extensively redesigned by architect Sandra Nowlan, the floor plan successfully merges traditional Victorian proportions with fluid contemporary living spaces tailored to modern family lifestyles.
- Expansive open-plan heart: The massive kitchen, dining, and living extension spans over sixty square meters, creating a phenomenal focal point for daily family interaction and large-scale social gatherings.
- Abundant natural light: Extensive overhead skylights, large picture windows, and a fully glazed rear sliding door system flood the interior spaces with daylight throughout all daytime hours.
- West-facing garden: The private rear garden measures roughly eleven meters in length and captures a sunny westerly aspect, providing an ideal sun trap for evening relaxation and outdoor dining.
- Low-maintenance landscaping: The garden has been thoughtfully finished with premium limestone paving, quality decking, and granite walls, ensuring outdoor enjoyment with minimal upkeep requirements.
- Generous floor area: Spanning approximately 152 square meters, the residence delivers exceptionally well-proportioned rooms that avoid the cramped feel often associated with typical period terrace conversions.
- Versatile bedroom configuration: With multiple rooms featuring period fireplaces and flexible layouts, buyers can easily adapt the accommodation to serve as formal reception rooms, studies, or guest bedrooms.
- Luxurious principal suite: The top-level principal bedroom includes extensive sliderobe storage and a generous en suite bathroom, creating a private retreat removed from the main living areas.
- High-end kitchen fittings: The contemporary high-gloss kitchen comes fully equipped with premium appliances including a Siemens five-ring gas hob and double oven, making it ready for immediate culinary use.
- Underfloor heating comfort: The ground-floor open-plan zone benefits from modern underfloor heating beneath oak and travertine surfaces, ensuring consistent warmth and efficient heat distribution during colder months.
- Flexible home office space: A dedicated first-floor room with multiple rooflights provides an ideal setup for remote working or quiet study, catering perfectly to modern hybrid employment trends.
- Ample bathroom facilities: The property boasts three well-appointed bathrooms across its levels, eliminating morning queues and providing excellent convenience for family members and visiting guests alike.
- Off-street parking: Gravelled off-street parking to the front provides a valuable and scarce commodity in this tightly packed coastal neighborhood where street space is at a premium.
- Stunning period details: Original ceiling coving, picture rails, center roses, and cast-iron fireplaces have been carefully preserved, adding authentic historic charm to the hall-level rooms.
- Walkable village proximity: Residents can easily stroll to Glasthule Village and Dun Laoghaire, offering immediate access to an exceptional array of boutique shops, restaurants, and specialist food stores.
- Excellent DART connectivity: The Sandycove and Glasthule DART station is within convenient walking distance, offering fast, reliable commuter access directly into Dublin city center and surrounding coastal suburbs.
- Quality integrated storage: Thoughtfully planned built-in shelving, sliderobes, and hot press storage throughout the interior help keep living spaces uncluttered and visually streamlined.
- Turnkey renovation standard: Having been meticulously restored and remodelled to a high specification, the house allows a new owner to move in immediately without undertaking disruptive building works.
But keep in mind:
- Moderate energy rating: The property carries a C BER rating, which indicates that energy efficiency is average for modern standards and may require future insulation upgrades to lower utility bills.
- Shared side passageway: The presence of a shared side passageway to the front could occasionally impact privacy and requires careful legal verification regarding maintenance rights and shared access obligations.
- Compact secondary bedrooms: While the main rooms are spacious, buyers should verify if the secondary bedrooms offer adequate storage space and long-term comfort for growing children or permanent occupants.
- Upstairs bathroom logistics: The main en suite bathroom is tied directly to the principal suite, meaning guests or occupants of other rooms must rely on separate shower facilities.
- Potential conversion costs: The first-floor sitting room has potential for an en suite addition, but buyers must budget for potential plumbing and structural adaptation costs if they wish to reconfigure the layout.
- Exposed timber flooring: Solid oak flooring throughout high-traffic areas like the open-plan kitchen and living space may require regular refinishing to prevent wear from everyday family use.
- Skylight maintenance needs: Extensive overhead glazing and multiple Velux rooflights will require regular cleaning and professional inspection to prevent potential weather sealing issues over time.
- High urban land values: The asking price reflects premium Sandycove market pricing, meaning buyers must carefully evaluate local comparable sales to ensure the investment aligns with current market realities.
- Exposed gas boiler placement: The gas boiler is housed within the kitchen area, which is functional but worth inspecting during a structural survey to ensure it meets current safety and aesthetic standards.
- Limited front garden privacy: The front gravel parking area is open to the streetscape with low boundary walls, offering less physical separation from passersby than a fully enclosed front garden.
- Terraced neighborhood density: Being located on a central residential road means neighbors are close by, which could occasionally introduce urban noise or limit absolute countryside tranquility.
- Historic property maintenance: As a beautifully restored Victorian villa, the structure will demand ongoing preventative maintenance for period-specific materials, joinery, and damp prevention.
- Decking weather vulnerability: Extensive rear decking looks attractive but requires regular staining, slip-proofing, and weatherproofing to withstand coastal dampness and heavy foot traffic.
- Gas-dependent heating: The reliance on gas-fired central heating and gas log fires means vulnerability to fluctuating natural gas utility tariffs, encouraging a review of renewable energy alternatives.
- Compact utility space: Laundry facilities are integrated into a compact ground-floor shower room, which may feel tight when operating a washing machine and dryer simultaneously.
- Stairwell traffic bottlenecks: The multi-level Victorian floor plan involves vertical living across stairs, which might present accessibility challenges for buyers with mobility concerns or young toddlers.
- Window ventilation limits: Certain period rooms rely on original sash windows that may need professional draught-proofing to maximize thermal retention alongside the modern extension.
- Potential extension boundary constraints: The urban plot configuration means future physical expansion is virtually impossible, restricting structural growth beyond the current 152 square meter footprint.
- Coastal weathering effects: The property's close proximity to the marine environment means salt air can accelerate exterior paint degradation and metal corrosion, necessitating more frequent exterior upkeep.
- Underfloor heating lag: The ground-floor underfloor heating system typically has a slower thermal response time than traditional radiators, requiring careful thermostat programming for optimal comfort.
Price positioning
?
- The asking price appears reasonably valued when considering recent verified transactional comparables directly on the same road, which demonstrate strong demand and robust price points for similarly sized residential properties in this desirable coastal location.
- Upward valuation signals include the high-end architectural remodelling, a prime coastal setting near Sandycove Harbour, off-street parking, and a private west-facing garden, all of which substantially enhance the overall market appeal of this Victorian home.
- Potential factors that could undermine this price level include the C energy rating, which might necessitate future capital expenditure for energy upgrades, whereas strong local buyer competition for turnkey period houses strongly supports the asking figure.
- Additional market relevance stems from the flexible three-bedroom accommodation layout, high specification open-plan living spaces, and proximity to excellent transport links, which collectively position the property competitively against wider area transactions.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a beautifully restored and extensively remodelled Victorian villa combining period features with a contemporary architect-designed rear extension.
- A buyer should investigate the structural integrity and damp-proofing measures implemented during the remodelling of the older Victorian structure, particularly around the bay windows and original external walls.
- Verify that all necessary planning permissions and building regulations compliance certificates are in place for the substantial rear extension, structural alterations, and attic/first-floor layout changes.
- Check the condition of the roof, plumbing, and electrical systems, ensuring that the integration between the older fabric of the house and the modern gas boiler and underfloor heating systems was executed properly.
- Inspect the boundaries, shared passageway, and off-street parking arrangements to confirm clear title and rights of way.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: €1,800 to €2,400.
- Explanation: Given the floor area of 152 square metres and a C energy rating, the property benefits from gas-fired heating and underfloor heating on the ground floor, though the detached period nature and extensive glazing mean energy consumption may be higher than in modern airtight builds.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The area is primarily residential and coastal, appearing generally well removed from heavy industrial sites, major waste incinerators, or active large-scale landfills.
- Any historical industrial uses or legacy concerns in the wider Dublin coastal belt should be independently verified by prospective buyers.
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
Recent Local Sales
Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years
Sales on the same street or estate
11A LOWER ALBERT ROAD, SANDYCOVE, CO DUBLIN
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €1,790,000.00
7 LOWER ALBERT ROAD, SANDYCOVE, CO DUBLIN
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €1,310,000.00
Recent sales in the wider Sandycove area
UNIT 2, BISCAY AVENUE, SANDYCOVE
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €2,026,000.00
RAVEN LODGE, 17 SUMMERHILL ROAD, SANDYCOVE
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €1,580,000.00
17 DUNDELA HAVEN, DUNDELA PARK, SANDYCOVE
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €610,000.00
14 CASTLE PARK RD, SANDYCOVE, DUBLIN
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €3,200,000.00
16 SANDYCOVE AVE EAST, SANDYCOVE, DUBLIN
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €2,250,000.00
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
1A Lower Albert Road, Sandycove
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €970,000.00
Buyer fees*
Associated expenses guide
- Stamp duty: Approximately €16,950 to €101,700 depending on whether the property is subject to standard residential rates or higher tier brackets.
- Solicitor legal fees: Approximately €2,000 to €4,000 plus VAT and outlays.
- Land registration fees: Approximately €600 to €800 for property registration and registry mapping.
- Property valuation fees: Approximately €150 to €300 for a standard mortgage or independent valuation.
- Surveyor fees: Approximately €800 to €1,500 depending on the level of detailed structural survey required for a period property.
- Annual home insurance: Approximately €600 to €1,200 depending on the policy coverage and rebuilding cost assessment for a Victorian home.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Local residents frequently highlight the desirability of Sandycove for its coastal lifestyle, proximity to the Forty Foot, and vibrant community atmosphere.
- Discussions on local forums often praise the convenience of Glasthule village and its array of independent cafes, restaurants, and specialist food shops.
- Traffic calming and parking management in the surrounding residential streets are occasional topics of local interest among residents.
- Community groups actively participate in local environmental initiatives and coastal conservation around Sandycove Harbour and Dún Laoghaire.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children7/10
The property offers three bedrooms and a secure enclosed rear garden ideal for young children, though families with very small children should note the internal stairs and multi-level layout.
- Teenagers7/10
The flexible layout provides good space and independent areas like the upstairs home office/sitting room, and proximity to DART offers great transport independence for teenagers.
- Multi-generational Living5/10
While there are three bedrooms and flexible reception spaces, the 152 sq.m footprint and single kitchen area limit true multi-generational privacy.
- Single Buyers6/10
A stunning architectural home with high specifications, though the 3-bed Victorian layout and price point may exceed typical entry-level single buyer budgets.
- Couples9/10
Exceptional fit for couples seeking a stylish, restored coastal home with open-plan living and luxurious principal suite.
- Empty Nesters8/10
Low maintenance garden and manageable size combined with single-level ground floor versatility make this attractive for empty nesters, though stairs are present.
- Retirees6/10
The coastal location and single-floor living potential are great, but the presence of first-floor bedrooms and bathrooms requires navigating stairs.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working9/10
Features a dedicated, spacious home office/sitting room upstairs with excellent natural light and flexibility.
- Hybrid Commuting9/10
Walking distance to Sandycove & Glasthule DART Station provides seamless, convenient commuting access to Dublin city centre.
- Retired8/10
Wonderful coastal environment with local village amenities, though stairs should be considered for long-term retirement planning.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place5/10
While ground floor living is viable, the primary bathroom and bedrooms span multiple levels, requiring buyers to verify suitability for long-term ageing in place.
- Low Maintenance8/10
Extensively remodelled Victorian home with a professionally landscaped, low-maintenance rear garden featuring decking and paving.
- Secure Gated Entry4/10
Front offers gravelled off-street parking behind boundary walls, but lacks secure gated entry.
- Minimalist Design7/10
Combines contemporary open-plan high-gloss kitchen design with restored Victorian period features.
- Flexible Floor Plans9/10
Highly versatile accommodation with reception rooms that double as bedrooms and a flexible upper home office.
- Heritage Home9/10
Beautifully restored Victorian villa retaining handsome façade, picture rails, ceiling coving, and period fireplaces.
- Ecological Setup6/10
Features modern gas-fired heating with underfloor heating and good natural insulation, holding a C BER rating.
- Outdoor areas8/10
Private west-facing rear garden extending to approximately 11m with extensive decking, limestone paving, and outdoor lighting.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening5/10
The approximately 11m west-facing rear garden is landscaped for low maintenance with decking and paving rather than extensive planting beds.
- Walking10/10
Superb walking opportunities along the immediate coastline, piers, and nearby villages.
- Gym7/10
Good local amenities in the Dún Laoghaire and Glasthule areas with various fitness options nearby.
- Cycling7/10
Coastal cycle routes nearby provide good access, though off-street parking is limited to a gravelled front space.
- Golf6/10
Several established golf clubs are within a short drive across south Dublin.
- Fishing8/10
Proximity to Sandycove Harbour and the coastline makes this very convenient for sea fishing enthusiasts.
- Horse Riding3/10
Urban coastal setting offers very limited local equestrian facilities.
- Water Sports10/10
Unbeatable location next to the Forty Foot, Sandycove Harbour, and Dún Laoghaire for swimming, sailing, and water sports.
- Entertaining9/10
The spectacular open-plan kitchen, dining, and living space opening directly to the private west-facing garden is ideal for entertaining.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living7/10
Located on a sought-after residential road in Sandycove with a private rear garden, though urban proximity means normal residential sounds apply.
- Rural Living1/10
This is an urban coastal setting in south County Dublin, entirely unsuited for those seeking rural isolation.
- Village Living9/10
Fantastic proximity to Glasthule Village, local shops, cafés, and restaurants all within easy walking distance.
- Coastal Living10/10
Prime coastal location moments from the seafront, Sandycove Harbour, and the Forty Foot.
- Urban Living8/10
Excellent access to Dublin city centre via the nearby DART station combined with vibrant local amenities.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement7/10
Active local community in Sandycove and Glasthule with numerous local groups and seaside activities.
- Café Culture10/10
Surrounded by an exceptional selection of local cafés, specialist food shops, and restaurants.
- Nightlife6/10
Good local pubs and restaurants nearby, with more extensive nightlife easily accessible in central Dún Laoghaire or Dublin via DART.
- Health/Wellness groups8/10
Proximity to sea swimming communities, fitness spots, and local wellness amenities.
- Networking Opportunities6/10
Good regional connectivity to Dublin business hubs via DART transport.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity7/10
Good transport links to Dublin's tech quarters and strong remote-working setup at home.
Listing information
- Agent
- Lisney Sotheby's International Realty Dalkey
- Phone
- 01 285 1005
- Published on HouseDelve
- 3 October 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-32B237HouseDelve · Republic of IrelandReport checks
Sources used: Public marketplace, Property Price Register, and grounded web research where available.
Automated quality checks: Passed
* Estimate — not advice. Actual costs and outcomes can vary materially. Obtain current quotations and professional advice before making financial or property decisions.