Saoirse Ronan, the acclaimed and beloved Hollywood actress, has captivated audiences worldwide with her remarkable performances in films such as Lady Bird and Little Women. But beyond her on-screen brilliance, Ronan has also made waves in the real estate world. Her picturesque property in West Cork, Ireland, is gaining attention for its serene charm and exciting plans for transformation. Known as the “Saoirse Ronan house,” this retreat is not just a getaway but a reflection of her Irish roots and evolving personal home style.
Discovering the Saoirse Ronan House in West Cork
A Hidden Gem in Ballydehob
Nestled in the quiet village of Ballydehob in West Cork, Saoirse Ronan’s house is a dream retreat that overlooks the stunning Roaringwater Bay. Located in the townland of Foilnamuck, the property boasts a 1.25-acre shoreline plot, complete with a private mooring. This idyllic location offers breathtaking views of the water and a feeling of total seclusion—perfect for a star seeking peace from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood.
The Purchase Backstory
Saoirse Ronan purchased this charming cottage in 2020, during the height of the pandemic lockdown. Priced at €795,000, Ronan snagged the home for €650,000—a wise investment for a property with such spectacular views. This move marked a significant lifestyle shift for Ronan, transitioning from her urban home in Greystones, County Wicklow, to the calm and beauty of rural West Cork.
Why West Cork?
Ronan’s decision to settle in West Cork wasn’t random. She reportedly fell in love with the area after frequent visits before making the purchase. Now, this picturesque locale has become her permanent base alongside her husband, fellow actor Jack Lowden. West Cork’s reputation for its artistic community, stunning landscapes, and slower pace of life makes it a magnet for creative souls—Ronan included.
Exterior and Grounds: Waterside Charm
The Saoirse Ronan house is not just a home; it’s a showcase of Ireland’s natural beauty. With its stone-cottage facade and wildflower-strewn gardens, the property embodies rustic charm that perfectly complements its waterside location.
Key Features of the Exterior
The main house is a cozy stone cottage, with an adjacent 70-square-meter stone outbuilding that could easily be converted into a guesthouse. The property also features:
- A private pier that provides direct access to Roaringwater Bay.
- A garden filled with native wildflowers, which Ronan reportedly plans to preserve and enhance during the expansion.
- Uninterrupted views of the bay offer a serene backdrop for daily life.
Scenic Perks
The property’s current design focuses on simplicity and its connection to nature. A small conservatory allows sunlight to flood the home, while the surrounding grounds offer endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Whether it’s a morning coffee overlooking the water or an evening walk through the garden, the Saoirse Ronan West Cork home is a true sanctuary.
Inside the Current Saoirse Ronan House Layout
While the exterior exudes rustic charm, the interior of the Saoirse Ronan house is equally inviting, with cozy spaces perfect for quiet moments.
Ground Floor: A Cozy, Functional Space
The ground floor features an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area. The kitchen retains a traditional feel, complete with a wood-burning stove that adds warmth and character. Large alcove windows let in natural light and offer views of the surrounding greenery. Clever storage solutions, like under-staircase cupboards, make the space both practical and cozy.
Bedrooms: Comfort Meets Simplicity
The house currently has two bedrooms:
- The Main Bedroom: A generously sized room on the ground floor, featuring a freestanding bathtub, dual-aspect windows, and direct access to the garden. This space perfectly balances luxury and simplicity.
- The Upstairs Bedroom: A charming dormer-style room with sloped ceilings and a study area, ideal for a private retreat or creative work. There is also a small bathroom on this floor.
Conservatory and Waterfront Views
One standout feature of the home is the small conservatory. Overlooking the bay, this sunlit space is perfect for reading, relaxing, or simply soaking in the beauty of West Cork. The intimacy and coziness of the current layout reflect Ronan’s desire for a low-key, peaceful lifestyle.
Luxe Expansion Plans for the Retreat
Saoirse Ronan has big plans for her West Cork home. In 2024, she submitted a planning application to the Cork County Council to transform this quaint cottage into a modern, luxurious three-bedroom home.
What’s in the Plans?
The proposed expansion includes:
- Demolition of the existing cottage to make way for a new, larger home.
- A three-bedroom layout, with two en-suite bathrooms and a library.
- Enhanced design features aimed at maximizing views of Roaringwater Bay.
- Integration of wildflower gardens and eco-friendly landscaping to maintain the property’s natural charm.
Design Philosophy
The expansion plans prioritize blending modern luxury with the property’s rustic surroundings. The new design is expected to incorporate large glass windows for uninterrupted bay views, as well as eco-conscious materials that align with Ronan’s love of nature.
Timeline and Speculations
The renovations are likely to begin post-2024, following Ronan’s marriage to Jack Lowden. The adjacent stone outbuilding may also be transformed, becoming a guesthouse or studio for the couple.
Saoirse Ronan’s Real Estate Journey
Saoirse Ronan’s journey through real estate reflects her evolving lifestyle and career.
The Greystones Home: A Stylish Departure
Before moving to West Cork, Ronan owned a stunning Edwardian home in Greystones, County Wicklow. Purchased for €1.5 million, the five-bedroom property featured a high-end kitchen, walk-in wardrobes, and a beautifully landscaped garden. She sold this property in 2020 for €1.6 million, marking the start of her move to a quieter, more private life.
From Urban to Coastal
Ronan’s transition from urban living in Greystones to the rural charm of West Cork mirrors her need for tranquility and privacy. While her Greystones stunning home was perfect for hosting and entertaining, her new retreat is all about peace, nature, and intimacy.
Lifestyle in the Saoirse Ronan West Cork Retreat
Life in Saoirse Ronan’s West Cork home is nothing short of idyllic. Here’s a glimpse at what her day-to-day might look like.
Daily Perks of West Cork Living
- Boating and Pier Access: With her private mooring, Ronan can enjoy boating adventures on Roaringwater Bay.
- Community Spirit: Ballydehob is known for its tight-knit community, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- Nature and Serenity: The quiet surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for creative pursuits or simply relaxing.
A Marital Haven
Sharing this modern home with her husband, Jack Lowden, Ronan has created a space that reflects their shared love of privacy and connection to nature. Together, they can enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful retreat and a base for their busy acting careers.
Where Does Saoirse Ronan Currently Live?
Saoirse Ronan currently divides her time between a home in Ballydehob, West Cork, Ireland, and a £2.3 million townhouse in Islington, north London, with her husband Jack Lowden.
