A Turner’s Cross Semi-Detached Home: A Gem with a Mesmerizing Garden
A quest for a good garden led Declan and Megan O’Donoghue to No. 36 Green Lawn, a semi-detached property in Turner’s Cross, Cork City. Their decision predates the COVID-19 pandemic, when the value of outdoor space became apparent to many homeowners. Despite the property’s need for significant repairs, the O’Donoghues were drawn to the unique garden and welcomed the challenge.
“We were just married and working in Cork city, so our priority was to buy a house in the city with a garden,” Megan shared. “The fact that No 36 wasn’t in great shape didn’t really matter; we’re not afraid of hard work. What sold it to us was the garden. It’s a fine wedge, on a corner site.”
The Lure of the Garden
The garden’s attributes were indeed irresistible: ample space for children to play, room to entertain, a lush lawn, and an attractive patio. Importantly, it faced south, maximizing sunlight exposure. The skillfully landscaped green space promised a perfect oasis for the family.
Extensive Home Renovation
With Doyle Bros taking on the construction phase, the couple gutted the house, a 1960s home in dire need of modernization. The uninviting kitchen and bathroom with green tiles were stripped away, making room for a complete overhaul.
“The house that emerged from the re-build was bigger, better, and a hell of a lot cosier, thanks to improved insulation,” Declan noted.
Extensions to the side and rear of the house were externally wrapped with insulation inside the rest of the home. New windows and doors, especially in the extension with aluminum Aluclad glazing, enhanced the living space, creating a light-filled, open-plan area connecting the living room and kitchen.
State-of-the-Art Kitchen
The modern kitchen, sourced from CFF kitchens, boasted quartz countertops, a Belfast sink, and generous storage, including a hidden pantry. A full-height corner window provided a picturesque view of the garden, flooding the kitchen with sunlight.
The Energy-Efficient Living Space
After less than seven months, the project was complete, increasing the home’s living space by about 800 sq ft, adding a downstairs extension and attic Conversion. The property’s energy efficiency index improved significantly, from G to B3, qualifying the owners for green mortgage rates.
With a solid foundation, the landscapers from Noblewood garden center in Carrigaline set to work on the garden. They leveled and seeded the rear lawn, while Megan planted flowers and lavender, and Declan constructed a fence from reclaimed wood. The result was a vibrant outdoor space perfect for children and adults alike.
The Decision to Sell
Despite their hard work, the O’Donoghues decided to sell the property. Their reason: a change in job flexibility that required them to relocate to the countryside with their two young children. Yet, Kevin Barry of Barry Auctioneers believes this turnkey home, boasting extensive updates, a fantastic corner site, and an attractive garden, will attract strong interest.
“If you bought a semi-d fixer-upper in the area, you’d pay around €400,000 and it would probably cost as much again to do it up to the standard that you’d want,” notes Barry. “What they’ve done is fantastic, and it’s already ready to move into.”
Key Features of the Property
The property offers an open-plan area, separate living room, three bedrooms (one converted into a walk-in wardrobe), two bathrooms (one with a wet room and custom-made vanity units), a large attic room, and a utility area with storage.
“It’s very handy to the South Link road network, so it could attract a few medics as it’s on the right side of the city for Cork University Hospital,” Barry explains. The property is also conveniently located near Musgrave Park, Turner’s Cross, schools, supermarkets, and city center services.
The Property’s Impressive Asking Price
The house, situated on a mature estate in Turner’s Cross, is listed at €625,000. Barry anticipates strong interest from families looking for an excellent trade-up in the city, with the added benefit of a high-quality garden and no need for further investment.
“The communal green around which houses are arranged is ‘really safe’ for kids to play on,” Megan adds, further emphasizing the property’s appeal.
Conclusion: A Must-See Property
This semi-detached home in Turner’s Cross, Cork City, represents an exceptional opportunity for families seeking an updated, spacious home with an outstanding garden. Its proximity to essential amenities, impressive bespoke features, and impressive energy efficiency ratings make it an unbeatable choice for potential buyers.
Garden to marvel at, at this genuine turnkey home, in a great neighborhood. It’s job done for the next owner.
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