This Ōrākei architectural gem elevates everyday living to a whole new level.
Located on a sheltered sunny and private site, it’s been a haven for a professional couple whose adult children have now flown the nest and while they did plan to stay, they will be spending more time in Central Otago which means saying goodbye to this dream home.
Built by Principle Homes and completed at the end of 2018, their brief for architect David Frost, of Architecture & Design Ltd, was to create a home that suited teenagers and young adults coming and going through school, university and early working life, while also being the ideal retreat for the couple once the kids had moved out.
“It’s got a great sense of space and really good separation,” says the homeowner.
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“The master bedroom upstairs has panoramic views of the Waitemata Harbour and the kids’ three bedrooms are downstairs, so the house copes with grown-ups and teenagers. Over the past seven years it’s mostly been the two of us living in the house so it still presents as new.”
Space and flow are Frost’s forte – achieved here through generous ceiling heights (particularly in the living areas) and seamless connection to the outdoors. A covered deck extends the entertaining space, linking with the inbuilt swimming pool which incorporates a spa pool and outdoor dining zone – it is a sheltered private loggia complete with fireplace and heater for year-round enjoyment.
“We can entertain out here in the wintertime just as easily as in summertime and seat 12 people around the table.”
A few steps from the kitchen is the potager garden, with raised beds of homegrown vegetables and herbs, a picking garden plus espalier fruit trees – landscaped by Xanthe White. With irrigation installed and no lawn to mow, maintenance is minimal.
Space and flow are architect David Frost’s forte – achieved here through generous ceiling heights and seamless connection to the outdoors. Photo / Supplied
The 341sqm home sits on 766sqm of land with irrigation installed and no lawn to mow. Photo / Supplied
Having a sense of connection with the outdoors was also important for the couple who built the bath in the master bedroom ensuite at a height to enjoy the view of the harbour out to North Head, sky and sunsets. The master bedroom also features a generous walk-in wardrobe and the other three bedrooms in the house are generous doubles with large wardrobes.
A two-person study sits on the mezzanine level – connected to the home it is quiet and private.
The four-car garage was a must for the couple, providing room for a home gym setup, storage for sports gear and a workbench, while there is also parking for two more vehicles.
The couple have loved living in Ōrākei and wish they’d moved to the area sooner.
“We just absolutely love living here. It’s so peaceful and quiet with convenient access to the city and the waterfront. It’s also a great house for privacy. It’s really secure and fully fenced with automated gates.”
A covered deck extends the entertaining space. Photo / Supplied
As a contemporary home, it benefits from excellent insulation, central heating (hot and cold) and has an indoor gas fire. Photo / Supplied
Established hedges also offer great privacy for living and entertaining. Entertaining is made easier thanks to the home’s large well-lit kitchen with substantial marble kitchen island, two Bosch ovens, gas hobs and double fridge, and a separate butler’s pantry.
As a contemporary home, it also benefits from excellent insulation, central heating (hot and cold), and has an indoor gas fire.
This is an architect-designed home created to meet family needs, says property agent Richard Thode, from Ray White.
“It offers incredible entertaining, kitchen and dining following to a large pool/spa and outdoor entertaining spaces, including an exclusive space with an outdoor fireplace for adults,” says Richard.
“There are three large bedrooms and a bathroom connecting to a second large living space designed to meet young peoples’ needs away from the adults. The master bedroom is upstairs to provide separation and a view of the water. And, there is a large garage capable to house four cars which is extremely rare. Plus, the home enjoys all day sun and privacy.”
- 150A Coates Avenue in Orakei, Auckland, is for sale, deadline closing December 4
