Originally part of extensive rural landholdings situated on Orakei Basin, Darwin Lane is one of Remuera’s most coveted waterfront spots.
Number 16 is a sensational 1960s home, totally and tastefully renovated to exceptionally high standards by current owners Leigh and Matt, who purchased the property in 2017 and began work on it in 2020.
“Virtually every room in the house looks out at the water, which is what we really love about it,” says Leigh.
“Although ultimately, we didn’t actually change the footprint, we certainly upgraded everything. Luckily, we were able to work around the lockdowns.”
Start your property search
Leigh and Matt had the drainage and electrics upgraded and their major makeover also included the expert rejuvenation of a once tired kitchen which is now an entertainer’s dream with high quality timber joinery, marble benchtops and top-end appliances.
It flows easily to light-filled dining, family and living areas – their water vistas framed by enormous windows. Even on the decks – both upstairs and down, glass balustrades ensure that views are never impeded.
The couple also redecorated the bathrooms, which are now very cool and contemporary, and added a separate laundry for extra convenience.
Their master suite on the top floor is generous and includes a bathroom and walk-in wardrobe. Three further bedrooms downstairs have use of two bathrooms while there are two huge storage areas.
“Virtually every room in the house looks out at the water, which is what we really love about it,” says one of the homeowners. Photo / Supplied
The once tired kitchen is now an entertainer’s dream with high quality timber joinery, marble benchtops and top-end appliances. Photo / Supplied
Décor throughout the home features lots of white, chosen to accentuate the beachside vibe. This north-facing 1206sqm section is tiered with the huge deck – complete with outdoor fireplace – and pool, and a tennis court below it. Beyond that is loads of lovely, lush green lawn.
“When you’re down at the bottom of the garden you are so sheltered it feels like a little warm micro-climate, even if it’s actually a cool day up above,” says Leigh.
“And with all the palm trees, coming home always feels rather like arriving at a resort – just 10 minutes from the city.”
The property includes a double carport and plenty of off-street parking as well. It’s just 10 minutes’ walk to Orakei Station for an extra-easy commute. Nearby Benson Road has some excellent cafes along with specialty stores and boutiques.
Listing agent Richard Thode says the property has its own private access to the waterfront walkaround, which means occupants can be in gentle water with their paddleboards within minutes. Photo / Supplied
The current owners bought the property in 2017 and began a tasteful renovation to exceptionally high standards in 2020. Photo / Supplied
Richard Thode is marketing this stylish hideaway and says that as well as the impeccable reinvention of a large family home, the property stands out for having its own private access to the waterfront walkaround, which means occupants can be in gentle water with their paddleboards within minutes.
“Understandably, properties in Darwin Lane are prized and tightly held so this is a rare opportunity for a young family to be running around and splashing in the pool by summer.”
Leigh and Matt naturally have mixed feelings about selling their special spot, but their own children are now grown-up.
“We’re really only using a small bit of a very large house. So, it feels like the right time to move on,” says Leigh.
- 16 Darwin Lane in Remuera, Auckland, is for sale, set date closing November 19
