This eco-friendly Waterford home (plus hot tub) could be yours for €950,000

There’s so much more to Waterford than its famous, hand-crafted crystal.

Located in Ireland’s sunny south-east, the county offers everything from coastal views to mountainous hinterland; not to mention a bustling city dating back to the Viking era. Beyond the city, there are quaint towns and villages; each with its own unique history and warm community.

While it’s steeped in history, Waterford is also home to some of the most modern houses in Ireland. One such example is Rockwood, an eco-friendly build in the parish of Dunhill, just 15 kilometres from Waterford’s city centre.

Bright, spacious and energy efficient

Set on an elevated site of 10.5 acres, this modern house has sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The property, which was built in 2007 by its current owners, is in the ‘Davinci Haus’ style; which means it encourages natural light, open space and eco-conscious living.

As is typical of a ‘Davinci Haus’, the framework and structural components were engineered and assembled in Germany, using the highest quality materials and craftsmanship. It was then transported to Ireland and finished on-site.

On first glance, the property has large, floor-to-ceiling windows; not only maximising the amount of natural light indoors, but also allowing the greenery of the garden to feel part of the home. What’s more, the double glazed windows are krypton gas-filled, boosting their insulation power.

Meanwhile, estate agent Roseanne De Vere Hunt from Sherry FitzGerald says the large overhanging eaves and gables protect the house from rain, snow, sun and wind.

Inside the house

Enter the property via a bright, tiled hallway, which the current owners have decorated with modern art and flowers. From here, pass through to an open-plan kitchen-cum-living and dining area. While this spacious room had the potential to feel cold and bare, the clever use of colourful furniture and plants divides it into three, intimate areas.

First, there is the living area with a free-standing stove. Brightly coloured furnishings, including a block-colour rug and orange cushions, create a tasteful contrast against the many dark support beams. The high ceilings and glass walls allow light to come pouring in from all angles, while potted plants breathe life into the room.

Then, in the centre of this open-plan room, is the dining area; which benefits from the double-sided stove and is large enough to host a big family.

The last section of this open-plan space is the kitchen, which (like the rest of the Davinci Haus), is modern in style. Its bright orange units are in keeping with the decor in the living and dining spaces, and they are complemented by silver handles.

The kitchen is also fully fitted with Gaggenau appliances, while a centre island and breakfast bar provide additional space for food preparation and eating. Elsewhere, a utility room houses a washer and dryer.

A separate study, sitting room and guest bathroom are also located on the ground floor, with estate agency Sherry FitzGerald suggesting the sitting room could be used as a possible fourth bedroom.

Upstairs, there are three large, double bedrooms (all of which have beautiful views of the surrounding countryside), as well as two bathrooms. The master bedroom features a convenient walk-in wardrobe, while the main bathroom boasts balcony access and double sinks.

Other features

In addition to its energy efficiency, what sets this house apart from others is its home gym and outdoor hot tub. The new owners can work out on the treadmill which overlooks the garden, all the while watching TV; then, if they fancy, take a dip in the roomy hot tub out back. Given the size of the garden (not to mention the mature trees and shrubbery surrounding it), your workouts can remain private.

Rockwood house is peaceful and secluded, with two acres of lawns and gardens. A further eight acres consists of forestry, which is fenced off from the main house and grounds. There’s also a wind turbine on the grounds.

What’s more, the gardens boast a well-kept patio area; perfect for al fresco dining during the summer months. There’s also a garden shed and a sheltered carport for two cars.

Priced at €950,000, Rockwood certainly isn’t cheap, but it’s secludedness and BER rating of B1 make it worth it.

Photos by Roseanne De Vere Hunt via Sherry Fitzgerald on MyHome.ie

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