High-spec penthouse overlooking Liffey is a glass act

THE INTERIOR of the penthouse apartment at Salmon Pool, Chapelizod is a masterclass in high-spec yet stylish solutions. In particular, its bespoke engineered glass doors are in a league of their own.

A clear glass version is used to separate the living space from the hall. Using toughened 12 ml glass you get a sound barrier that allows light through. Upstairs this same style is echoed in milk glass on the doors of the infra-red sauna. Both have polished steel fittings and set a very slick tone.

This type of work does not come cheap but is a wonderful addition to any contemporary space.

Both doors were created by Longford Architectural Metalwork Limited (043-46195). Expect to pay upwards of €15,000 each for something similar.

The adjoining en suite bathroom features an indigo blue vinyl sail-shaped ceiling. It's a chic solution that refracts light and works particularly well in bathrooms.

The Strawberry Tree restaurant at Brook Lodge and Wells Spa outside Aughrim in Co Wicklow uses this idea to great effect and should be visited by anyone contemplating this ceiling solution on a grand scale.

Surrey-based Stretch Ceilings (0044 1276 681000) is one company offering these made-to-measure solutions. Including labour, expect to pay upwards of €1,930 for something similar.

The penthouse's streamlined kitchen by Eggersmann is a wonderful example of German engineering.

The anodised aluminium units are framed in 100mm thick black nero absolute granite, which creates a strong looking space that doesn't feel like a built-in kitchen.

This is a style idea to steal even if your budget doesn't extend to anodised aluminium units.

The owners imported this kitchen themselves but these stylish creations are now available from Surreal Designs (091-764682) in Galway. Expect to pay from €55,000 upwards for something similar. This price includes the Gaggenau ovens, dishwasher and fridge/freezer and the Miele hob and extractor.

B&B Italia leather seating features throughout the lounge and library but these are punctuated by 19th century pieces from Michael Connell Antiques (01 4733898) and John Farrington (01 6791899) - but it is the double fronted gas fire that divides the two living spaces that is unique.

This was purchased in Hearth and Home (01-6200100) and the Kal firebox customised to make it aesthetically acceptable both front and back.

The owners did this by adding a brushed steel plate to the back of the firebox and fixing it in place with small magnets.

In the hall there is a wall-fixed Kengott staircase with polished rail. It was installed by McNally Joinery (01 8433022). Prices start from €10,000 upwards for similar.

© 2008 The Irish Times

This article appears in the print edition of the Irish Times