Poppy House, Kilmainham, Emo, Co. Laois, R32F7Y4

A quintessential picture-postcard stone residence on the edge of the beautiful village of Emo. Brimming with character and charm, this enchanting stone residence offers the rare combination of timeless country house appeal and all the comforts of modern living. Extensively renovated and virtually rebuilt to an exceptional standard, the property has been beautifully transformed into a superb contemporary home, achieving an impressive B energy rating whilst retaining the irresistible charm of its traditional stone exterior. Beyond the welcoming red front door lies a home of remarkable quality, complemented by a striking contemporary extension, beautifully landscaped gardens, sweeping gravel forecourts and delightful private grounds. Enjoying an idyllic setting on the edge of one of County Laois's most picturesque villages, this is a truly special home The welcoming entrance hall immediately sets the tone for the beautifully renovated accommodation, with its elegant, fresh finish and attractive staircase leading to the first floor. To the left lies a beautiful dual-aspect ground floor bedroom, a wonderfully bright and generously proportioned room enjoying natural light from two sides. Across the hallway, the delightful sitting room is rich in character, with a magnificent antique fireplace providing an elegant focal point and lovely views across the landscaped front gardens. The sitting room leads through to the stunning kitchen and dining area, a superb contemporary addition that perfectly complements the character of the original residence. Beautifully appointed and filled with natural light, this impressive space features elegant shaker-style cabinetry, extensive worktops and a striking contrasting blue island. Large glazed doors open directly onto the gardens and breakfast patio, whilst the adjoining dining area is perfectly positioned before a magnificent picture window framing delightful views of the rear garden. One of the kitchen's most appealing features is a delightful concealed doorway, seamlessly incorporated into the bespoke-style cabinetry. Opening to reveal a hidden room with fitted larder shelving leading through to a beautifully finished utility area with additional storage, worktop space and independent rear access. This clever and thoughtful design allows the practical elements of everyday living to remain discreetly tucked away. Completing the ground floor accommodation is a rear hallway, a useful storeroom offering excellent potential as an additional pantry, and a beautifully appointed shower room with contemporary fittings and attractive marble-effect tiling. Throughout, the accommodation has been finished to an exceptional standard, with an emphasis on quality, natural light and understated elegance. The result is a wonderful blend of traditional character and contemporary luxury, creating a home that is as comfortable and practical as it is beautiful. The attractive staircase rises to a bright and welcoming first floor landing, where the quality of the extensive renovation continues throughout. The first floor offers two beautifully proportioned double bedrooms, both enjoying a wonderful sense of space and light. The bedrooms are particularly appealing, with their charming cottage-style windows, deep window reveals and attractive elevated ceilings adding character and individuality to each room. Both bedrooms enjoy pleasant views over the surrounding gardens and mature greenery, creating peaceful and inviting spaces. The generous proportions, soft neutral finishes and quality carpeting provide an elegant, understated feel, perfectly in keeping with the character of this beautiful stone residence. Completing the first floor is a superbly appointed family bathroom, finished in a contemporary style with attractive marble-effect tiling, a stylish vanity unit and elegant brushed brass fittings. A full-sized bath with overhead rainfall shower and glazed screen provides the perfect combination of luxury and practicality. Throughout the first floor, the beautifully finished accommodation continues the home's seamless blend of traditional charm and contemporary comfort, with excellent natural light and a wonderfully restful atmosphere. One of the property's delightful surprises is a magnificent, beautifully finished garden room, tucked away in a peaceful setting and surrounded by mature greenery. Flooded with natural light through its large picture windows and French doors, this superb additional space is ideal as a home office, creative studio or tranquil retreat away from the main house. The grounds provide a wonderfully private and picturesque setting, with extensive lawns sweeping around the house and the beautiful stone façade providing the prettiest of backdrops. The property enjoys a perfect southerly rear aspect meaning it enjoys the sun all through the day. From the charming breakfast patio offering the perfect spot to enjoy the morning sunshine, to the beautiful side al fresco dining patio, outdoor dining is a must here, while the rear gardens enjoy an exceptional sense of privacy, sheltered by mature trees and established planting. Tucked away in one corner is a delightful little secret garden, adding another lovely element of surprise. To the front, a traditional stone wall lends character and a sense of arrival, while the satisfying crunch of the gravel driveway completes the timeless country house atmosphere. Altogether, the gardens are a beautiful complement to the house, offering space, seclusion and an abundance of charm. Behind its beautiful period façade, this remarkable home is, in many respects, practically a new house. Extensively renovated and extended throughout, it benefits from completely new wiring, plumbing, heating, flooring, kitchen and bathrooms, combining all the character and charm of a traditional stone residence with the comfort, efficiency and convenience of modern living. Perhaps most impressively, the property boasts an excellent B energy rating, a rare achievement for a home of this character, promising significantly lower heating costs and the added advantage of eligibility for a green mortgage, subject to lender criteria. It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the romance of a period home without the usual compromises. The location could scarcely be better, offering the peace and beauty of country living with an exceptional choice of amenities close at hand. The charming village of Emo and the magnificent grounds of Emo Court are less than five minutes away, providing a wonderful setting for leisurely walks, running and enjoying the great outdoors. For commuters, Portarlington Train Station is approximately ten minutes away, with services to Dublin in under 40 minutes, while the M7 motorway is also just ten minutes away, placing the capital within an easy hour's drive. Families are particularly well catered for, with a choice of excellent primary schools nearby in Emo and The Rock, while secondary schools in Portarlington, Mountmellick and Portlaoise are from approximately ten minutes away. For shopping, the world-class boutiques of Kildare Village are less than twenty minutes away, while golf enthusiasts will delight in having the magnificent Seve Ballesteros-designed championship course at The Heritage Golf & Spa Resort just ten minutes from their doorstep. It is a truly enviable location, combining the tranquillity of the countryside with remarkable convenience and accessibility. Viewing of this is exceptional home is highly recommended