Monees at the top of Maryborough Hill, near Douglas, was a world removed from urban living when the current owners moved there 35 years ago, but as Cork City crept gradually outwards, it effectively became part of the continuous suburban spread.

Housing estates sprouted along the flanks of Maryborough Hill, roads were widened, bus routes added and Douglas village went from being a distant retail destination to just a short spin down the road.

“It seemed very far out at the time, but the city and services have been extended and it’s now within the city bounds,” says the owner, who moved there with her teenage children.

Over the preceding years, Bracken House in Monees grew with them, and gradual improvements were made, so a new owner will have little to do.

It’s an exceedingly generous home with a site to match. Spread over 0.52acres, the owner was passionate about the garden, and it shows. A large balcony overlooks it from the upstairs landing or you can admire it from the patio areas that face south and west. A substantial lawn at the far end of the property once was, and could be again, a tennis court. They all enjoyed the tennis court in the early years, and later golf at nearby Douglas Golf Club.

The five-bed house has tremendous living space, including a couple of reception rooms, a conservatory, and a home office/recreation room adjoining a garage, which selling agent Lawrence Sweeney of Savills says could be separated from the main house and made into an independent living unit — for relatives, or to generate rental income (€14k tax free under the rent-a-room scheme).

Additional features at this inviting home include a downstairs bedroom, two ensuites, and a sauna in the main family bathroom. The guide price is €925,000.