The owners of this contemporary Langs Beach home designed it so that three generations could relax and enjoy time together in a quintessentially Kiwi setting.
“When our youngest son returned to New Zealand and started a family, we decided that we should build a beach house so that our grandchildren could experience New Zealand summer beach holidays,” says Martin, one of the owners.
They enlisted a power team to bring their vision to life – Lindesay Construction, responsible for building Eagles Nest and some of Auckland and Northland’s most high-end houses, and architect Paul Clarke from Crosson Clarke Carnachan Architects.
“They started construction on our house in 2008 and we moved in January 2011, so it was a very careful and meticulous process. It’s built on a slope and Paul designed it so that every bedroom has a sea view.”
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An impressive 345sqm floorplan is sprawled across three levels, with clever design allowing spaces for family time and individual privacy when required. Five well-proportioned bedrooms are serviced by four bathrooms (including two ensuites) and the grandkids have their own level.
The structure is essentially made up of two large buildings connected by a glass-walled hallway. Extensive glazing is a key feature throughout, allowing natural light and sun to filter into the spaces and make sure the coastal landscape is on full display.
The spacious and well-equipped kitchen has a large island to gather around and is ideal for entertaining – flowing to adjacent living, dining and outdoor spaces.
Oak ceilings and floors soften and add warmth to the interiors and the entire northern side – including the double height living room – opens up completely to the sheltered terrace, reserve and white sand beach beyond.
Architect Paul Clarke, from Crosson Clarke Carnachan Architects, designed the three-storey 345sqm home while Lindesay Construction built it.
The spacious and well-equipped kitchen has a large island to gather around and is ideal for entertaining – flowing to adjacent living, dining and outdoor spaces.
“There’s a big grassy reserve between us and the actual beach and the reserve is owned by a trust for all the residents – it’s there for everyone to use. Particularly over summer the local children play cricket on it.”
Enduring materials and robust design mean the home withstands the coastal elements and is a tranquil and private sanctuary during all seasons.
“It’s got outdoor living areas on either side that you can use depending on the weather – they’re quite private, people can’t see into them,” says Martin.
This includes the north-facing area out front and west-facing courtyard.
It’s also very easy to live in. “There are a lot of little things that make it convenient and we made good use of modern technology with the full automation system. I can unlock the door and turn the alarm off remotely from my phone.”
The 971sqm property is tucked down a right of way and, as well as a garage, has ample off-street parking for several additional vehicles. A dedicated storage area also offers room for all the water toys.
Another real bonus here is the fact that the property is on town supply water and sewerage, which provides major peace of mind.
The structure is essentially made up of two large buildings connected by a glass-walled hallway.
Agent Blair Chandler says the beachfront property is one of Langs’ finest.
The family have loved their time at Langs Beach.
“It’s special for a few reasons – there’s very little parking here and no shop, so you get very few day-trippers. It tends to be used by residents,” says Martin.
“It’s also known for its pohutukawa-lined shore. I planted two at our place – I often think if you have a beach house, you need to look at the sea through a pohutukawa. It takes an hour and 40 minutes to get here from Auckland – the new motorway has helped and when the next part goes on it’ll be even shorter. It’s quite a pleasant drive, not difficult.”
A shift in family dynamics has prompted the sale.
“Our New Zealand-based grandchildren are leaving home and the beach house doesn’t get used as often. As our other children and grandchildren live overseas, we often travel to see them, which is another reason we don’t use it so much now.”
Agent Blair Chandler says that this special beachfront property is one of Langs’ finest and notes its contemporary architectural design and high-tech features.
“Everything is automated and it will be a perfect beach house for people looking for a very easy-care property.”
- Sponsored by Chandlers Real Estate
