At Knight Frank, we don’t just sell properties; we help shape stories. And few stories are as inspiring as Jennifer Browne’s – a talented interior designer who saw beyond the walls of 17 Pearse Square and envisioned a home filled with light, charm, and character.
The Property’s Potential
Jennifer purchased this Georgian gem through our team, drawn to its rich history and timeless architecture. She saw past the wear of time and imagined a home that blended classic elegance with contemporary comfort. Her meticulous documentation of the renovation process showcases the dramatic before-and-after journey of bringing this home back to life.
History
Like many areas in Dublin’s inner city, Pearse Square has benefited from several regeneration projects carried out by Dublin City Council throughout the end of the 20th century. One of the most impactful of these schemes was the restoration of its central square, which had largely been covered in concrete, as a hand ball alley. Returning the space back to the original Victorian gardens in the 1990’s has provided the neighbourhood and locality with much needed green space to an otherwise densely populated urban area.
More recently, with the launch of the Dublin Living City Initiative, prospective home buyers are more encouraged to purchase historic homes within the boundaries identified as the historic inner city. The Initiative aims to provide funding to those properties and owners that need to carry out restoration works. For more information click here. https://www.dublincity.ie/residential/planning/active-land-management/living-city-initiative
Inner City Regeneration 1960s – 1990s
Like many areas in Dublin’s inner city, Pearse Square has benefited from several regeneration projects carried out by Dublin City Council throughout the end of the 20th century. One of the most impactful of these schemes was the restoration of its central square, which had largely been covered in concrete as a handball alley during the 60s and 70s. Returning the space back to the original Victorian gardens in the 1990s has provided the neighborhood and locality with much-needed green space in an otherwise densely populated urban area.
Living City Initiative Special Regeneration Area, Dublin
More recently, with the launch of the Living City Initiative, Pearse Square also lands inside the denoted conservation area outlined by Dublin City Council. Prospective home buyers are encouraged to purchase a historic home within the boundary of the selected area.
The initiative aims to provide funding to those properties and owners that need to carry out restoration works. The tax incentive scheme allows owners to claim relief for money spent on refurbishment works. Learn more here.
Restoring Period Features
One of Jennifer’s key focuses was preserving the period details that made this property special, particularly to re-instate the timber Victorian style door, and replace the existing aluminium windows with timber sash. From intricate ceiling cornicing to original fireplaces, she carefully restored these elements while ensuring they complemented her fresh, modern aesthetic.
Reimagining the Layout
Georgian homes were built for a different era, and Jennifer adapted the layout to suit modern living. By opening up spaces, enhancing natural light, and creating a seamless flow between rooms, she transformed the home into an inviting and functional space. The interior fit-out aimed to restore all existing interior walls, while removing synthetic wall and floor coverings. An abundance of vinyl and glue had caused damage to original timbers in the floors and walls which thankfully could be restored.
The Heart of the Home: The Kitchen
A true highlight of the renovation, the kitchen is a perfect balance of style and practicality. The choice was made to re-locate the kitchen to the middle floor whilst respecting the historical characteristics of the house – as this floor receives a significant amount more daylight. Jennifer selected premium materials, elegant finishes, and a layout that encourages both cooking and entertaining. The result? A space that’s as stunning as it is functional.
The Finishing Touches
Every detail, from carefully chosen colour palettes to bespoke furnishings, reflects Jennifer’s passion and expertise as an interior designer. Thoughtfully designed spaces enhance the home’s character while making it feel effortlessly stylish and welcoming.
We’re proud to have played a role in this incredible journey and love seeing how our clients make a house their own. Swipe through to see the stunning evolution of 17 Pearse Square, and let us know — what’s your favourite part of the transformation?