St. John's Grove, Gilltown, Kilcullen, Co. Kildare, R56XE40

St. John’s Grove nestled by high trees and adjacent to the countryside church that gave it its name, is overlooked by 7th century Old Kilcullen round tower which is reflected in its own round room. This is an authentically unique property having been substantially altered by its owners using Bio-Architecture sustainable design fifteen years ago that mimics natures symmetry and harmonics, rather than copying a conventional style. Built by a gifted team of Estonian artisans, the design and craftmanship must be seen to be fully appreciated. The energy flow envisioned by the architect is immediately striking when entering the large flowing open space of the home, with no right angles, just curves and circles with natural light enticed within through its undulating windows that rise and fall with the sun from East to West, finally catching the last rays at its western terrace. The property at 562 sq m (6,049 sq.ft) sits on an elevation within 4.235 hectares (10.46 acres) comprising of a two furlong gallop, American barn, boxes, lunging ring and walker designed originally for a champion Irish trainer. Strategically located the property affords easy access to the M9, M8 and M7 motorways putting Dublin Airport between 45 to 60 minutes and the Red Cow 30 to 40 minutes, traffic dependent. It is also within a short distance to train stations at Kildare, Newbridge and Sallins taking passengers into Heuston and Connolly stations in Dublin city centre. The location which is between Punchestown and the Curragh race courses also gives immediate access to County Kildare’s unique stud farms, the closest Gilltown Stud and Newabbey Stud within a short walk and through the village of Hollywood into the Wicklow mountains to the ancient centre of learning in Glendalough. The house developed by its owners with extensive attention to insulation and technology, is kept cosy, comfortable and temperate throughout the year serviced by a highly efficient ground heat recovery system. Originally designed in 1998, the residence was significantly extended between 2011 and 2012, adding substantial additional accommodation by wrapping the existing house in its unique design. Large expanses of glazing and carefully considered proportions allow light to flood the interiors throughout the day, while the layout creates a seamless connection between the principal reception areas and the surrounding gardens. The result is a home where biomimetic architecture and everyday living integrate effortlessly, offering both comfort and practicality in an elegant yet highly functional setting. At the heart of the home lies an impressive open-plan living space extending from the kitchen on the eastern side through to the main lounge on the west. This remarkable space features 4.57 m high vaulted ceilings with a series of skylights which flood the space with natural light, while the flowing layout and curved feature wall create a striking architectural focal point. The accommodation throughout is beautifully balanced for a large family and social events, comprising seven bedrooms and seven bath/shower rooms, including a particularly spacious principal suite. The living accommodation is centred around a high-end kitchen and the impressive “Round Room”, a striking, flood-lit principal reception space that creates a true focal point within the home. Further reception areas include a snug and breakfast area, together with designated dining and formal living spaces, offering a superb variety of areas for both everyday living and entertaining. Additional accommodation is equally well considered, comprising a dedicated home office, studio, games room, utility room, walk-in pantry, and linen cupboard. High-quality finishes are evident throughout, including top quality polished limestone tiled flooring with underfloor heating, part of an efficient electric heat pump system with geothermal exchange connected to the mill stream running along the western boundary. The extension works included comprehensive upgrades such as new plumbing, wiring, windows and insulation, together with air exchange systems designed to maintain a comfortable internal environment year-round. Double-glazed windows, supplied by Estonian specialists, further enhance both comfort and energy efficiency. Two large and one smaller wood-burning stoves provide additional character during Christmas and winter nights as an optional feature. The ground floor area in the new design is beautifully finished with special tiles imported from Turkey, fitted atop underfloor heating and deep ground insulation. The gardens and surrounding lands are an integral part of the property’s appeal. The house is approached through electric gates along a driveway bordered by mature copper beech hedging, with the grounds further enhanced by cherry blossom trees and perimeter planting of beech and oak. To the west, the Mill stream provides a picturesque setting for a unique outdoor entertaining area, complete with a barbecue space, open bar and outdoor platform overlooking the water. St. John’s Grove is exceptionally well suited to equestrian use, reflecting the area’s renowned association with thoroughbred breeding and training. The grounds are thoughtfully laid out and include a two-furlong gallop, an American-style barn with 12 loose boxes, feed room, horse walker, lunging ring, and four well-divided paddocks. The training yard is further complemented by a manager’s office, kitchen, and shower facilities, creating a highly functional and well-equipped equestrian setting. St. John’s Grove represents a rare opportunity to acquire a distinctive, high-end luxury country residence offering substantial accommodation, architectural character, and exceptional equestrian facilities within one of Ireland’s most established bloodstock regions and within easy distance to Dublin. Location St. John’s Grove is situated in the townland of Gilltown, a quiet rural setting just outside the historic town of Kilcullen in County Kildare. Kilcullen lies on the River Liffey and is located approximately 6 km from Newbridge, 10 km from Naas and about 40 km from Dublin city centre. Kilcullen provides a range of everyday amenities including shops, cafés, restaurants, schools and community facilities, while also serving as a local service centre for the surrounding south Kildare area. The nearby motorways offers direct access to Dublin, the south and the southeast, while regular bus services connect the area with Dublin and neighbouring towns. Newbridge and Naas, just a short drive away, provide further amenities including the Whitewater Shopping Centre and a commuter rail service to Dublin. For the busy executive St Johns Grove creates a wonderful, secure and private environment to raise a family with a substantial array of excellent primary and secondary schools and quick access to Dublin Airport with over 200 direct worldwide destinations served by nearly 50 airlines.