Proudly occupying a prime position on Sumner’s iconic waterfront, this special property tells a story of Christchurch past and present.
It was originally crafted in 1907 as a grand Edwardian Arts and Crafts home, then essentially rebuilt and expanded with an award-winning architectural extension by Wilkie + Bruce, after the quakes in 2013.
This juxtaposition of the two eras showcases a beautiful balance of heritage grace and contemporary style, offering all the comforts and peace of mind of a brand new build, while showcasing the charm and elegance of period design.
The two-level floor plan incorporates five bedrooms, a bathroom, an office and open plan living, dining and kitchen downstairs, with the luxurious master retreat with dressing room and ensuite upstairs.
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Richard and Catherine have owned it for the past 33 years and were grateful to take over as custodians of this historical seaside haven.
“The house was built by a well-known family in Christchurch at the time,” explains Richard.
“His name was Morris, of Quill Morris Wine and Spirits Merchants. He built it as a holiday house. At that time it was virtually on the sand dunes and there was a bullock track running at the back that serviced these houses.”
Richard says this one was built to stand the test of time, with plenty of its original quirks still in place and that have always been talking points over the years.
“Being a wine and spirit merchant, he had a bit of money and built a wine cellar at the back, which was a bit rare in those days. It’s still there today, as is the Riccardo wash down closet (W/C), which is still in perfect working condition.”
According to the historic paperwork, in 1908 Morris also put an application for a motor garage into the Sumner District Council.
The 291sqm residence sits on a 889sqm section, and has five bedrooms, two bathrooms, parking for two vehicles, a spa and decking. Photo / Supplied
The home owners of 33 years decided to rebuild after the earthquakes so the home was re-piled, stripped to its bare bones, and then restored to its former glory. Photo / Supplied
“A huge amount of money and effort went in to making sure it was completely up to standard,” says one of the owners. Photo / Supplied
“As a historian said, they would have been very wealthy to have had a motorcar in 1908. Most people would come to Sumner on the Tram.”
Morris’ foresight also had him build the structure 1.2m off the ground as protection from any rogue king tides and this elevation enhances the sense of arrival here.
After the earthquakes the couple made the decision to rebuild, so the old house was repiled and stripped to its bare bones, then precisely reimagined and restored to its former glory.
“A huge amount of money and effort went in to making sure it was completely up to standard and the whole house is double insulated. We kept the wide skirting boards and the wide architraves, and all the stained glass is either original or has been repainted or replaced.”
The new extension at the rear was designed by Richard’s late brother, acclaimed architect Alun Wilkie. “He won architecture awards and a Master Builders Award won for that extension. You’ve got a house that’s old at the front but right up to today’s specs and a brand new addition at the back that’s linked on.”
Another aspect of the house that significantly adds to the square metreage, is the huge basement below. “That’s been a games room, a bar, a workshop and we’ve built little boats and all sorts down there.”
The new extension at the rear was designed by one of the owner’s late brother, acclaimed architect Alun Wilkie, of Wilkie + Bruce, which won awards for Wilkie. Photo / Supplied
“We kept the wide skirting boards and the wide architraves, and all the stained glass is either original or has been repainted or replaced,” says the home owner. Photo / Supplied
The owners have called their 889sqm property “the ultimate coastal sanctuary”. Photo / Supplied
In addition to the single garage, there is an additional off-street park onsite.
As well as being on the beach, for surfing, swimming and strolling, the neighbourhood is just a short stroll from the vibrant cafes, boutiques, and community atmosphere of Sumner village.
Richard and Catherine have called the 889sqm property “the ultimate coastal sanctuary” and have loved listening to the sounds of the ocean, being able to walk out the front door to walk the dogs, and pulling the boards off the rack and going for a surf.
There’s a jacuzzi for a soak after a swim, a Falcon oven to cook for friends on, and a thriving orchard out back filled with feijoas, apricots, figs, pears, and quinces.
After three decades, they’re ready to pass on the legacy. “We’re downsizing now and moving on and hopefully it’ll go to a family.”
Anuj Badkar, from Ray White, says that this is a trophy property. “It’s a beautiful property for families who want to enjoy the beach lifestyle for generations to come.”
122 Esplanade in Sumner, Christchurch, is for sale by auction, to be held on July 9.
- Sponsored by Ray White
