Mount Ruby: A Storied family home, reimagined
On Navigation Road in Mallow, a repolished gem sits with a warm, inviting glow: Mount Ruby, a detached family home that rests on over five acres. With a 70-year history and a recent complete refresh, this property offers the rare combination of classic roots and modern comfort, all within easy reach of the town’s lively amenities and equestrian activity. The current listing, at €750,000, marks a new chapter for a home that has long been a hub for generations.
An estate with hearts and homes across the Atlantic
Mount Ruby first drew attention in 2021, when its detailed lineage—past and present occupants, the Sheahan family’s seven children, and a free-range country upbringing—was shared in property pages. The grounds once housed ponies, chickens, and organic abundance beneath the branches of a centuries-old oak, offering a bucolic childhood landscape. When parting became necessary, the family’s ties to the property endured, underscoring how deeply Mount Ruby is woven into the local story.
Constance Leahy: A transatlantic chapter and a meticulous renovation
Constance Leahy, a member of the Sheahan clan, spent 35 years in the United States before returning to oversee renovations at Mount Ruby. Her aim was twofold: to preserve the home’s aura and to modernize its infrastructure for future family gatherings and holiday stays. She embraced a design-forward approach, balancing old-world charm with contemporary conveniences. The renovation was not undertaken to narrow the house’s scope of life; it was a deliberate, high-end upgrade that would ensure Mount Ruby remains a cherished retreat for generations.
What’s new: high-end upgrades meet timeless bones
With input from respected builder Anthony Foley, Mount Ruby now features a top-tier kitchen from Cullen View, notable for its sleek, wall-mounted stove and a layout designed for both family cooking and social entertaining. The home’s bathrooms have been refreshed to a high standard, complemented by updated plumbing and electrical systems and a modern water filtration setup. Inside, replastering has refreshed older walls and eliminated textured Artex ceilings while preserving the home’s character.
Energy efficiency has taken a front seat. Fifteen new energy-efficient windows and doors brighten and insulate the interiors, while a new oil boiler and tank enhance comfort and reliability. The outbuildings have also benefited—outhouses have been rebuilt and a series of field gates installed, aligning with the practical needs of a working and family-friendly estate.
A rare offering: land, location, and luxury in one package
What sets Mount Ruby apart isn’t just the house but its land and setting. The 5.8-acre bundle provides space for hobbies, horses, or simply expansive garden enjoyment, all within a short distance of Mallow’s racecourse, walks, and riding hacks. The property’s location on Navigation Road makes it a practical choice for those who value proximity to local amenities while escaping the bustle of larger urban centers.
Market positioning: a refined upgrade for a discerning buyer
Listed with Linda O’Donovan of Bowe Property at €750,000 AMV, Mount Ruby presents a rare combination of land, luxury, and a sense of history. The home’s 2021 price point and subsequent updates illustrate a thoughtful trajectory—from a modestly priced country home to a sophisticated, move-in-ready residence with broad appeal to families looking to trade up or investors seeking a standout countryside property. The sale on a single lot, including the full acreage, emphasizes a turnkey lifestyle for buyers who want a seamless transition to a timeless rural-life experience.
Verdict: a house with enduring appeal and modern finesse
Mount Ruby stands out as a family home that honors its past while embracing current luxury standards. It’s not merely a residence but a lifestyle—a place where generations can gather, whether for clan reunions, holidays, or everyday living. The blend of old bones and new upgrades, combined with significant land, makes Mount Ruby a prime candidate for buyers seeking a premium country property in the wider Mallow area.
VERDICT: Kudos all around for a property that has evolved without losing its heart.
