The buildings were chosen for their architectural interest, superb landscapes and gardens, or sumptuous interiors and furnishings. Jacqueline O'Brien's more than 300 color photographs portray the imposing Medieval Dunsany Castle; grand Palladian country houses such as Castletown and Powerscourt; Regency masterpieces like Mount Stewart, Barons Court, and Castle Coole; and inventive Gothic Revival houses such as the magnificent Glin and Tullynally castles.

The text, written by O'Brien and Desmond Guinness, reveals the unique character of each house and its architecture, plasterwork, paneling, glass, furniture, painting, and silver. A list of architects and craftsmen working in Ireland and a special section on Irish decorative arts make the book an invaluable reference.