While their original 1950s weatherboard home didn’t look like much at the outset, the owners saw serious opportunity here and knew they could turn it into something special. The vision has become reality as they’ve now transformed it into a stylish modern masterpiece.
“The place was completely run-down, it’s unrecognisable today from what it was. We saw a lot of potential in the view,” one of them shares.
From its elevated position on the sought-after Northcote ridge, the property captures 180-degree views of Shoal Bay, the busy harbour and iconic Auckland City skyline.
“No matter the weather or time of day, there’s always something interesting to look at on the water, as well as the sparkling city lights at night,” she says.
Start your property search
They completely gutted the whole house, with the aim to beautifully modernise the interior and rework the floor plan to make it more practical.
“We transformed the garage into a third bedroom with an ensuite and created open-plan spaces – the previous living areas were in three different rooms with the kitchen hidden away, so really old school.”
The refreshed layout now incorporates three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a study area. These are enhanced with new joinery, engineered timber flooring and a designer kitchen, along with a fresh, clean and contemporary aesthetic that allows the ever-changing outlook to take centre stage.
As well as bringing everything into the 21st century, creating a seamless indoor/outdoor connection and significantly upgrading the landscaping was another key focus. Walls of large glass stackers flow out to sunny decks designed for easy entertaining, as well as the new heated saltwater pool.
The 140sqm home, which sits on a 772sqm section, has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and off-street parking for four vehicles. Photo / Supplied
The homeowners gutted the whole house and modernised the interior and reworked the floor plan. Photo / Supplied
Compact flat lawns are framed with crisp mature hedges that create a real sense of privacy.
“The outdoors have really become an extension of the interior spaces and we created the landscaping to be low maintenance. It’s a good lock-up-and-leave without sacrificing relaxing outdoor living areas and gardens. We also felt the pool would really elevate the house and seemed fitting with the surrounding harbour views.”
There is plenty of off-street parking available that is protected by an electric security gate. The former city dwellers were also delighted at how well-connected and centrally located this prime North Shore location actually is.
“We love how close the city and Ponsonby are – under 10 minutes’ drive – as well as Takapuna and the beaches. Heath Ave [is] just off Sylvan Avenue, where you drive down and can go north or south on the motorway – we love that.
“We’re on a cul de sac here. It’s a nice neighbourhood with a family friendly, community feel. There are also so many beautiful walks around Northcote and Northcote Point, which we have discovered since moving into the area.”
The outdoors are an extension of the interior spaces and the landscaping is low maintenance. Photo / Supplied
“No matter the weather or time of day, there’s always something interesting to look at on the water, as well as the sparkling city lights at night,” one of the homeowners says. Photo / Supplied
The keen renovators are off to attack their next project.
“The renovation process was super enjoyable for us and it’s been very rewarding watching the transformation of the property. We both absolutely love our home and lifestyle here, but we are itching to get stuck into another project.”
Hannah Petherbridge, from Ray White, says this property’s exemplary finishes, ideal proportions and easy-care grounds make it ideally suited to executive couples, small families and the area’s busy downsizers, who are keen to inject a little more freedom and flexibility into their lives.
“The owners have done all the hard work here – partnering with top designers and expert builders to completely transform this 1950s bungalow into a high-spec masterpiece. They perfected every detail, from the reimagined layout to the luxury finishes and stunning pool.
“All that’s left to do is to move in and soak up the breathtaking views of the Auckland City skyline and harbour from your front-row seat in one of Northcote’s most coveted locations. This one definitely won’t last long.”
21 Heath Avenue in Northcote, North Shore, Auckland, is on the market for sale by way of auction on May 29.
- Sponsored by Ray White
