There are tons of benefits to living in the middle of town.

In fact, some of Cork’s most characterful neighbourhoods are in the city centre. The problem is, many of the houses are small, old, badly laid out and not suited to all our many modern needs.

With some clever reworking however, you could have it all; a cosy modern home just a stone’s throw from all the action. And the owners of 31 Prosperity Square are here to show us how it’s done.

Tucked away in a quiet cul-de-sac just off the vibrant Barrack Street, No. 31 has just hit the market at €295,000, giving us all a glimpse inside a rather marvellous refurbishment and architectural redesign completed in 2018.

Every element of this home has been carefully considered. The property was completely rewired and replumbed, with new double-glazed windows and engineered oak floors fitted throughout. The chimney was fully lined to accommodate an open fire in the sitting room.

“Stepping inside, you are greeted by a pretty pink front door that opens into a bright and welcoming hallway with patterned tiled flooring.” says estate agent Aine McLoughlin of AML Property Services, who is handling the sale.

“The living room to the front is both cosy and contemporary, featuring an open fire, soft neutral walls, and engineered oak flooring that runs through the main spaces. A large window looks out toward the historic stone wall beyond, blending the home’s modern aesthetic with hints of the past.”

To the rear, the house opens dramatically into a beautifully designed kitchen and dining area.

“This space is filled with natural light thanks to the large sliding glass doors that lead directly to the south-facing garden. The kitchen itself is striking dark cabinetry contrasts with warm timber countertops and open shelving, creating a bold yet inviting atmosphere.” adda McLoughlin.

Upstairs are two elegant and bright double bedrooms and a modern bathroom with high-quality fittings and a walk-in shower, providing a calm, contemporary feel.

Outside, the private south-facing garden is a rare find in such a central location.

Enclosed by a beautiful old stone wall, it offers a tranquil and sunny retreat perfect for morning coffee, weekend barbecues, or quiet moments in the open air. A garden shed provides useful storage, and there is ample on-street parking in this peaceful cul-de-sac.

Even the address is something special: “Originally part of a 19th-century terrace built to serve the workers and tradespeople of Cork’s south inner city, Prosperity Square has always been a place full of community and character.” explains Áine McLoughin.

“Its name reflects the optimism of the period a time when Cork was thriving as a busy port city. Today, this charming corner of old Cork retains its warmth and friendliness, with narrow streets, colourful doors, and a strong sense of local identity, while being just minutes’ walk from the city centre.”

Interested in arranging a viewing? Check out the listing here.