Gráinne Duffy is preparing to sell her charming waterside period home, which holds a fascinating history as a former treatment center for children with whooping cough, as well as being the primary power source for the town. In the 19th century, the medical world often dabbled in questionable practices, with a variety of treatments that frequently worsened the patients’ conditions. For example, those suffering from the flu might have been prescribed cocaine, mercury, or even a nasal douche containing carbolic acid.
One such treatment involved taking children with whooping cough or asthma to “cough holes” located at various gasworks throughout the country. These unfortunate young ones would be suspended over the pits to inhale tar fumes. The theory was that one of the gases present, ammonia, had a similar effect to smelling salts, so inhaling the tar’s aroma would induce a tickling sensation leading to a fit of coughing, supposedly removing the “whoop” from the cough.
The property is located on the banks of the canal, and in addition to its medical history, it served as the town’s main source of power. Dating back to 1865, barges from Dublin delivered coal to the site, which fueled the burners. The chimney that expelled the fumes remains standing in the garden to this day.
The building has undergone extensive renovations since its time as a gasworks and manager’s cottage. In 1998, the owners at the time expanded the cottage and connected it to the office building on the other side of the site. Now spanning 2,700 square feet on a landmark one-acre plot in Naas, the Old Gasworks has become a beautiful family home.
Gráinne Duffy and her husband Aaron purchased the house in 2017 after a long search in the area. They were immediately drawn to the Old Gasworks and recognized its unique charm. Since moving in, they have only made minor updates, such as painting, as the previous owner had kept the property in excellent condition. Duffy particularly appreciates the small details, such as the lights installed under the eaves for Christmas that still work perfectly.
Initially, the house was simply a property they liked the look of, but over time, they realized its historical significance. Situated in the middle of town, it’s a landmark that everyone passes on their walks along the canal. Duffy enjoys being in the garden and chatting with the passers-by, making it a special part of the community.
Although no major structural changes were necessary, Duffy’s passion lies in decorating the house. She has a love for antiques and enjoys finding unique pieces that add layers and tell a story. There are items from different stages of her life, creating a memory-filled and personalized space.
Upon entering the property through the front door, painted in Colourtrend’s Vert Gris to match the windows, one finds the original manager’s cottage. This section of the home features a long entrance hall leading to the sitting room with its cast iron fireplace and three-meter high ceilings. Adjacent to the sitting room is the master bedroom with an ensuite bathroom and a utility room.
On the opposite side of the hall is the open-plan kitchen, designed to connect the two buildings. A central brick chimney provides a nod to the past and houses a Rayburn range cooker. Hand-painted solid wood units, a Belfast sink, and a larder offer ample storage. Situated on the other side of the chimney are the dining area, a more casual living space with double doors opening to the garden and patio, a playroom, bathroom, and garage.
Upstairs, one side of the house features two ensuite bedrooms, while the other end offers a bedroom overlooking the playroom, perfect for a home office.
The house sits on the canal bank, and the back of the property is entirely private, surrounded by mature trees. Duffy has created various seating areas to suit different occasions, and a vast field beside the house allows her children to run free without any worries.
The covered pergola has been a fantastic addition to the property, providing a comfortable outdoor space to enjoy, no matter the weather. From here, one can observe people strolling along the canal and witness the changing seasons. Duffy fondly remembers the magical experience of witnessing snowfall in 2018.
Despite the attachment to her current home, Duffy is embarking on a new adventure, both personally and professionally. After working in schools for 20 years, she has decided to pursue a career in counseling and coaching. She recently completed a master’s in guidance counseling and is opening a private practice.
This period of change has prompted Duffy and her family to also consider moving house. Despite occasionally wondering if they are “mad” for leaving their current home, they are ready for a new chapter. Duffy is eager to make another house her own and believes in making the most of life’s opportunities.
The Old Gasworks is now on the market, with an asking price of €895,000.
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