Suitably named Herons’ Rest, 241 Seagrove Road in Waiau Pa is as idyllic as its name suggests.

The result of a dedicated build, with every detail thought of, Ian Bell and his real estate agent wife created exactly the waterfront home they had in mind.

“We had been on the property for 30 years, we love the area, so we subdivided the land and set about designing a new residence,” Ian says.

“We wanted a stunning home with a beach-like ambience, and it had to have lots of light and space to accommodate our artwork. Every aspect has been designed for us, it’s not like the Lockwoods of yesterday.”

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It certainly isn’t – every piece of timber has been blonded, in all it took their painter three months to achieve the perfect effect, involving many coats and experimentation.

It was a hands-on build, tells Ian, with every facet of the project involving the couple who lived on site in a caravan throughout the build.

241 Seagrove Road in Waiau Pa, Franklin, is on the market for sale by auction on March 22. The four-bedroom, three-bathroom property on 8805sqm has a 2021 RV of $1.975 million.

241 Seagrove Road, Waiau Pa, Franklin

The four-bedroom, three-bathroom home, with 200sqm of decking, sits on a 8805sqm site and has a 2021 RV of $1.975m. Photo / Supplied

The home is defined by vaulted sarked ceilings, generous windows and thoughtful detail, from the introduction of Kaiaua blue stone to the copper accents and extensive outdoor living.

The design unquestionably delivered the space they were looking for. The kitchen, dining and living room is an immense but warm space, with immediate water views and a striking fireplace as its focus.

The kitchen is as contemporary as you’d expect of a four-year-old home, with a butler’s pantry, copper splashback and modern appliances.

Along a gallery-esque hall, you’ll find the bedroom wing of the home, offering three double bedrooms, each opening onto the deck. The master bedroom encompasses a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite, and the fourth bedroom is removed, making it ideal for guests and teenagers.

The home’s perfectly flat and manicured peripheral matches the interior in equal measure.

241 Seagrove Road, Waiau Pa, Franklin

The kitchen, dining and living room is an immense but warm space, with immediate water views and a striking fireplace. Photo / Supplied

241 Seagrove Road, Waiau Pa, Franklin

241 Seagrove Road in Waiau Pa is the result of a dedicated build where the owners wanted a stunning home with a beach-like ambience, lots of light and space to accommodate the artwork. Photo / Supplied

“It’s our favourite part of the home, with the alfresco indoor-outdoor living on three sides of the house. We have over 200sqm of kwila decking with plenty of seating, there’s so many places to relax, but by the stone fireplace is a favourite,” describes Ian.

The flat section with direct Manukau Harbour views was intentional and done to stunning effect. The couple, who are keen gardeners, achieved a distinctly native and sea themed landscape, with palms and masses of hibiscus.

Barfoot & Thompson agent Trudy Boyce, who is marketing 241 Seagrove Road, says, “You cannot help but be impressed with this special property with amazing water views, tranquillity and privacy. The vendors with their vision have created an exceptional and true haven.”

Given the couple’s 30-year residence on the property, it goes without saying, they love the area.

“Our family are water lovers, we’re keen boaters and sailors. Having that access to the water has been invaluable. My wife is a keen horse rider, and the area offers a quiet and calm place for horses along the road,” says Ian.