Can't see the wood for the trees at Coorannel House

A RARE opportunity to live in Glengarriff Nature Reserve in a house designed by an eco architect presents itself in Coorannel House.

Set on four acres, the slate and glass modernist house  was built in 2008 after lengthy negotiations with planners, given its sensitive location, and is on the market for €695,000. 

Designed by West Cork architect Tony Cohu it’s built on the southern edge of the nature reserve and  nestles seamlessly into the mountain slope over four half-levels. Its grey-green, low-maintenance slate cladding, one of the architect’s signature design elements, nearly camouflages the house.

As can be expected from an ecologically-responsible home, it is well insulated, has energy efficient glazing, underfloor heating, solar hot water heating, and a respectable B3 BER rating.

The accommodation includes a stylish open plan kitchen, dining and living room, library/home office, master bedroom with built-in wardrobe and ensuite, large guest bedroom, family bathroom and utility room. The nearly finished lower floor contains 78.3 sq. m (842 sq ft) of space with shower room, floor to ceiling windows on two sides and is ideal for use as additional bedrooms, guest accommodation, granny flat or studio. In every room, including the lowest level, the house opens to the forest and garden surroundings with generous glazing and sliding doors. The grounds are well laid out with a fenced kitchen garden which includes flower and vegetable areas combined with soft fruit, plum and apple trees. 

An outdoor deck balcony off the kitchen has a connection for a gas barbeque and room for a small table and chairs.

Ray O’Neill, of Sherry FitzGerald O’Neill, Western Road, Clonakilty is managing the sale. Tel 023 8833995.