Sunville House, North Circular Road, LimerickV94X59H
€3,200,000
4 Bath~556 m²
What you'll like:
- Substantial floor area: The expansive 556 square meter main residence provides exceptionally generous living space, ensuring that large families can spread out comfortably across multiple well-proportioned formal and informal rooms.
- Multiple ancillary units: The inclusion of three separate apartments and a charming coach house offers incredible versatility, allowing buyers to generate substantial rental income or accommodate extended family members independently.
- Prestigious location: Situated along Limerick City's most distinguished North Circular Road, the property guarantees a highly desirable address close to leading schools, top-tier sporting amenities, and the vibrant city center.
- Exceptional historical provenance: Boasting connections to the renowned Cleeves family and former government minister Donogh O'Malley, the landmark c1845 residence carries a deeply rich local heritage that appeals to history enthusiasts.
- Exquisite interior finishes: High-end bespoke features such as handmade Venetian enamel glass mosaics, leather parquet flooring, and Burr Elm kitchen cabinetry deliver an extraordinary level of luxury throughout the main house.
- Modernized period comfort: Extensive upgrading and renovation efforts by the current owners successfully blend grand nineteenth-century architecture with contemporary infrastructural efficiencies, creating a turn-key luxury family home.
- Advanced wine cellar: The specialized three-meter deep spiral cellar with a concealed door accommodates over one thousand bottles, providing wine collectors with a secure and temperature-controlled storage environment on-site.
- Private walled gardens: Designed by renowned landscape architect Angela Jupe, the tranquil grounds feature mature plantings, manicured lawns, a pergola, and a gazebo, creating an exceptionally private oasis within the city.
- Secure gated parking: Extensive gated parking facilities provide both peace of mind and ample convenience for multiple vehicles, which is a rare and valuable commodity so close to the urban core.
- Grand entertaining spaces: Magnificent reception rooms featuring elegant detailing and soaring proportions make this property an ideal setting for hosting large gatherings, charity events, or formal dinner parties with ease.
- Flexible family accommodation: The upper floors offer six bedrooms, multiple studies, and libraries, ensuring that every household member enjoys dedicated private zones alongside warm and welcoming communal spaces for daily living.
- Distinctive architectural features: A two-storey pentagonal bay window, ornate Victorian plasterwork, and decorative ceilings provide striking visual character that cannot be replicated in modern new-build housing developments.
- Strong rental potential: The independent access points for the separate apartments mean landlords can easily market these units to professional tenants without compromising the privacy and security of the main house.
- Robust security infrastructure: Imposing entrance gates and walled grounds offer superior privacy and physical security, protecting residents from street-level disruption while maintaining an impressive and welcoming estate presence.
- Proximity to business districts: The convenient North Circular Road setting ensures that corporate executives and professionals can commute effortlessly to major employment hubs and commercial centers across the Limerick region.
- Cultural significance: Having hosted iconic figures such as Eamonn de Valera, Richard Harris, and Patrick Kavanagh's muse, the residence holds a celebrated place in Irish literary and political history.
- Versatile outbuilding footprint: The combination of a dedicated garage, service room, and multiple independent dwellings equates to hundreds of square meters of extra functional space beyond the primary residence.
- Gourmet kitchen setup: Fitted with a high-capacity Britannia seven-ring gas hob, dual electric ovens, and premium Miele and Fisher and Paykel appliances, the kitchen is fully equipped for serious culinary enthusiasts.
- Seamless indoor outdoor flow: Thoughtfully designed outdoor living spaces like the oval-shaped lawn and pergola connect smoothly with interior reception areas, enhancing the lifestyle experience during warmer weather months.
- Rare market availability: Properties of this extraordinary scale, architectural pedigree, and comprehensive ancillary accommodation rarely come to the open market on the North Circular Road, representing a genuinely generational acquisition.
But keep in mind:
- Potential conservation restrictions: Buyers should investigate local planning rules, as historic properties of this architectural significance often face strict municipal regulations regarding alterations, painting, or modern modifications.
- Substantial ongoing maintenance: Maintaining a sprawling Victorian estate, extensive walled gardens, and multiple separate outbuildings will require a significant recurring financial budget and dedicated facilities management.
- Lack of BER certificate: The listing notes that a Building Energy Rating is not provided, meaning buyers must commission an independent assessment to understand the thermal efficiency and heating costs of the historic structure.
- Unclear structural condition: Due to the age of the c1845 original construction and subsequent Victorian additions, prospective buyers must commission a rigorous structural survey to identify potential damp, timber decay, or roof issues.
- High baseline asking price: At €3,200,000, this property represents a major capital outlay that requires careful financial due diligence to ensure long-term value retention within the local Limerick luxury housing market.
- Complex letting management: Managing three separate apartments and a coach house involves landlord responsibilities, compliance with tenancy regulations, and potential administrative burdens if chosen as rental investments.
- Potentially high utility costs: Large period homes with high ceilings and extensive square footage can be notoriously expensive to heat, necessitating careful verification of existing boiler systems and insulation standards.
- Insurance complexities: Insuring a landmark historical residence with bespoke interior finishes and antique elements may attract higher premium costs and require specialist heritage property insurance policies.
- Renovation verification required: While the listing mentions extensive modern upgrades, buyers should verify the exact timeline, scope, and engineering quality of past plumbing, electrical, and roofing interventions.
- Traffic and urban proximity: Although nestled within private walled grounds, the North Circular Road is a major urban artery, and buyers should assess potential traffic noise and congestion during peak commuting hours.
- Boundary and title clarity: The multi-lot description and collection of adjoining dwellings require thorough legal verification of rights of way, shared access points, and clear title deeds for every individual structure.
- Accessibility limitations: Multi-level historic layouts featuring multiple staircases and basement wine cellars may present mobility challenges for elderly residents or individuals requiring wheelchair-accessible ground-floor living.
- Specialist repair requirements: Unique architectural features like handmade Venetian mosaics and Burr Elm cabinetry require specialist artisan skills to repair or maintain, which can significantly inflate maintenance expenses.
- Parking capacity logistics: While extensive parking is mentioned, accommodating vehicles for the main house occupants plus tenants from four separate ancillary units could occasionally lead to congestion on-site.
- Energy efficiency unknowns: Older sash windows and solid masonry walls typical of 1840s construction can be difficult to insulate without compromising historical fabric, potentially leading to drafts and high energy usage.
- Future modernization costs: Even with recent upgrades, future owners may eventually wish to update kitchens, bathrooms, or heating systems to suit personal tastes, adding further capital expenditure onto the purchase price.
- Local market liquidity: Luxury properties priced above three million euros typically have a much smaller pool of eligible buyers, which could potentially extend future resale timelines if liquidity drops.
- Drainage and plumbing age: Buyers must verify the condition of underground drainage systems, sewer connections, and older internal pipework to prevent unexpected plumbing failures common in estate properties of this vintage.
- Garden upkeep overheads: Maintaining specialized landscape architecture, mature plantings, and extensive lawns requires either dedicated personal labor or the regular employment of professional gardening services.
- Compliance of outbuildings: Buyers should verify that all conversions involving the coach house and three apartments have full planning permission and fire safety compliance for independent residential use.
Price positioning
?
- The asking price for this expansive historic residence appears positioned above typical suburban city averages, reflecting its exceptional scale, extensive period detailing, and unique collection of multiple ancillary rental units situated on prestigious walled grounds.
- Upward valuation signals stem from the comprehensive modern restoration, high-end bespoke finishes throughout, substantial total floor area exceeding seven hundred square metres, and proven income-generating potential from the separate apartments and coach house.
- Potential factors that could undermine such an ambitious price include limited transactional liquidity for top-tier urban properties in this specific regional market, alongside ongoing maintenance liabilities associated with managing a protected historic landmark.
- Relevant considerations encompass the rare provenance and historic association with prominent figures, which creates a niche lifestyle asset class that relies entirely on affluent buyers seeking prestige rather than standard metric valuations.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- Sunville House is a landmark mid-19th-century residence built c.1845 with subsequent Victorian additions around the 1890s, featuring period construction techniques, timber elements such as rare Burr Elm, and extensive ornate plasterwork.
- The property includes multiple ancillary dwellings, specifically three adjoining apartments and a separate two-bedroom coach house, which should be inspected for independent compliance regarding services, fire safety, and rental standards if intended for letting.
- As a historic and potentially protected structure, buyers should verify the planning status of any past modernizations, extensions, or alterations made during the extensive upgrading programmes.
- Given the age of the primary structure, a thorough structural survey is recommended to investigate traditional building damp-proofing, roof integrity, timber preservation, and the operational condition of the specialized installations such as the spiral wine cellar and bespoke interior finishes.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: €6,000 to €9,000. Explanation: Due to the very large floor area of approximately 556 m² for the main house combined with additional apartments and a coach house, heating requirements will be substantial. Since the BER rating is exempt or not provided for this period property, energy efficiency may vary significantly compared to modern builds.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The property is situated in an established, leafy urban residential suburb with no apparent major industrial facilities, active landfills, or waste incinerators in immediate proximity.
- Any historical industrial legacy in the broader city area is distant from this prime residential enclave, though prospective buyers should verify local environmental reports for absolute certainty.
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The location along the North Circular Road is generally elevated well above the main tidal and river floodplains associated with the River Shannon.
- While broad regional flood mapping indicates a low overall risk for the immediate site, buyers are advised to review detailed local catchment assessments and historical drainage records.
Recent Local Sales
Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years
Sales on the same street or estate
No verified results were found for this group in the previous five years.
Recent sales in the wider local area
No verified results were found for this group in the previous five years.
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: Approximately €312,000, calculated at 1% on the first €1 million and 2% on the balance for a property asking €3,200,000.
- Solicitor legal fees: Ranging from €10,000 to €25,000 plus VAT and outlays, depending on the complexity of the title and multiple ancillary units.
- Land registration fees: Approximately €800 to €1,000 for property registration and mapping.
- Property valuation fees: Approximately €500 to €1,500 depending on the valuation provider and scale of the estate.
- Surveyor fees: Approximately €3,000 to €6,000 for a comprehensive structural survey of a large period residence and multiple outbuildings/apartments.
- Annual home insurance: Approximately €3,500 to €7,000 given the large historical footprint, extensive square footage, and multiple rental or guest units on site.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Residents frequently discuss the North Circular Road in Limerick as one of the city's most prestigious and premier residential addresses.
- Local community discussions often highlight the excellent maturity of the area, noting its combination of historic properties and peaceful, tree-lined surroundings.
- Neighbourhood forums regularly praise the location for its strong sense of privacy while maintaining exceptional convenience to the city centre and top local schools.
- Traffic management and peak-hour congestion along arterial routes into the city centre are occasionally mentioned by residents on local platforms.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children8/10
The property offers extensive and secure walled grounds with magnificent private gardens designed by Angela Jupe, featuring manicured lawns and a tranquil oasis which is ideal for young children to play safely under supervision.
- Teenagers9/10
The availability of multiple ancillary dwellings, including apartments and a coach house, provides exceptional independence and dedicated spaces that teenagers or older dependents will greatly appreciate.
- Multi-generational Living10/10
With three additional apartments and a coach house offering independent access alongside the main historical residence, this estate is perfectly structured for multi-generational living arrangements.
- Single Buyers3/10
At 556 m² with multiple independent dwellings and a substantial asking price of €3,200,000, this grand historical estate is excessive for a single occupant unless extensive rental management is desired.
- Couples7/10
Couples who value historic character, expansive reception rooms, and luxury amenities will find this an impressive home, though the sheer scale may require considerable upkeep.
- Empty Nesters7/10
The property offers luxurious single-level independent apartments on-site which could serve as comfortable living quarters while renting out the main house or hosting visiting family.
- Retirees6/10
While private, secure, and well-appointed for ageing with ancillary staff or family accommodation nearby, the massive scale of the main historic house and extensive gardens involve substantial maintenance.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working10/10
With a dedicated study, library, and multiple independent apartments and a coach house well-suited for home office spaces, the property is exceptionally equipped for remote working.
- Hybrid Commuting9/10
Unrivalled convenience to Limerick city centre and business districts makes hybrid commuting exceptionally convenient.
- Retired7/10
The serene walled environment and private layout suit retirement well, especially with options for live-in help or rental income from the apartments.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place8/10
The availability of independent single-level apartments within the grounds allows for caregiver accommodation or downsizing while remaining on the same secure estate.
- Low Maintenance3/10
Comprising a massive 556 m² historic main house, three apartments, a coach house, and extensive Angela Jupe-designed grounds, upkeep requires substantial ongoing maintenance.
- Secure Gated Entry10/10
The landmark residence is nestled securely behind imposing gates with extensive gated parking, ensuring exceptional privacy and security.
- Minimalist Design2/10
The property showcases traditional period elegance, ornate plasterwork, decorative ceilings, and rich historical character rather than minimalist aesthetics.
- Flexible Floor Plans10/10
Exceptional flexibility is offered by the collection of additional dwellings, including apartments and a coach house, which can generate rental income or be incorporated back into the main residence.
- Heritage Home10/10
Built around 1845/1846, Sunville House is a landmark residence of immense historical significance, steeped in local heritage and previously owned by notable figures.
- Ecological Setup5/10
While featuring mature gardens and historical character, modern eco-retrofits are less explicitly detailed beyond general contemporary modernization.
- Outdoor areas10/10
Spectacular private walled grounds featuring mature planting, manicured lawns, a pergola, a gazebo, and an oval-shaped lawn designed by landscape architect Angela Jupe.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening10/10
The grounds feature beautifully landscaped walled gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Angela Jupe, complete with mature planting, manicured lawns, a pergola, gazebo, and an oval-shaped lawn.
- Walking8/10
The North Circular Road is renowned for its distinguished homes and mature surroundings, providing a pleasant walking environment close to local amenities and the city centre.
- Gym5/10
There is ample space to install a private home gym within the extensive ancillary buildings or the main residence, though no dedicated commercial-grade wellness equipment is explicitly mentioned on-site.
- Cycling7/10
The central yet established residential location offers good connectivity to surrounding roads and cycle routes into Limerick City.
- Golf7/10
Limerick features esteemed local sporting amenities and golf clubs within accessible driving distance from this premier city location.
- Fishing4/10
While the region features local waterways, fishing is not a direct feature of this urban walled estate.
- Horse Riding3/10
The property includes a garage and extensive grounds, but equine facilities on-site are limited to general urban land rather than stables.
- Water Sports3/10
The location is primarily urban residential with no immediate waterfront access for water sports.
- Entertaining10/10
Magnificent reception rooms provide an exceptional setting for entertaining on a grand scale, complemented by a 3-metre deep spiral wine cellar holding over 1,000 bottles and stunning walled gardens.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living8/10
Nestled behind imposing gates within private walled grounds along the prestigious North Circular Road, the property provides complete privacy and seclusion despite its city-adjacent setting.
- Rural Living4/10
Although the mature walled gardens and trees offer a tranquil oasis reminiscent of the countryside, the property is located directly on a well-known city address in Limerick.
- Village Living5/10
It combines a secluded estate feel with urban convenience, though it lacks the traditional tight-knit community square dynamics of an actual rural village.
- Coastal Living1/10
The property is situated in an inland city setting along the North Circular Road in Limerick with no coastal proximity.
- Urban Living9/10
Located on one of Limerick City's most prestigious addresses with unparalleled convenience to the city centre, leading schools, dining, and business districts.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement8/10
The property is deeply entrenched in local heritage and historical significance within a well-established and prestigious neighbourhood.
- Café Culture9/10
Close proximity to Limerick City centre ensures easy access to a vibrant and expanding café culture and dining scene.
- Nightlife8/10
The central location provides rapid access to city-centre restaurants, pubs, and evening entertainment venues.
- Health/Wellness groups7/10
Proximity to Limerick's sporting amenities and wellness infrastructure supports active participation in health groups.
- Networking Opportunities9/10
A property with such historic prestige and expansive entertaining spaces has historically served as a prime hub for high-profile gatherings and networking.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity8/10
Excellent urban positioning ensures strong overall digital and telecommunication connectivity suitable for modern professional demands.
Listing information
- Agent
- Sherry FitzGerald Limerick
- Phone
- 061 418 000
- Published on HouseDelve
- 20 September 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-3D7B87HouseDelve · 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.