To count as one of the better homes on what could be described as one of Auckland’s best streets is saying something.
Tucked down a verdant driveway from its leafy and sought-after northern slopes position, 19A Masons Avenue in Herne Bay, Auckland, is a striking revelation, set well apart from its Edwardian neighbours.
Conceived by New York architect, David Howell, it’s an illustration of the architect’s clever use of concrete, which once seen, would convert even the most hardened architectural traditionalist.
The owners had long been Howell enthusiasts when they bought the property.
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Having worked with him and joining him on architectural tours in Los Angeles, but serendipity played a part in their procurement of the home.
“I wanted to show my wife a classic example of David Howell’s work, we rode past on our bikes, and she absolutely loved the home. Three weeks later she enthusiastically showed me it had been listed for sale. So, we pursued it with vigour and we got it,” says the owner.
19A Masons Avenue in Herne Bay is on the market for sale by a set date closing June 1. The four-bedroom, four-bathroom property has a 2021 RV of $7.3 million, of which the improvement value is $3.1m.
The construction of the home was commissioned by gallery owner Gary Langsford with the intention to accommodate art, light and space in equal measure. Photo / Supplied
New York-based architect David Howell illustrated his skill with concrete and the result is a light- filled and ultra contemporary residence. Photo / Supplied
According to OneRoof records, it last changed hands in October 2020 for $6.9m and before that in 2005 for $3.2m.
Commissioned by gallery owner Gary Langsford, 19A Masons Avenue in Herne Bay was produced with the intention to accommodate art, light and space in equal measure.
Howell illustrated his skill with concrete and the result is a light- filled and ultra contemporary residence, which time has favoured. Soaring stud heights and vast rooms denote the home’s gallery-worthy spaces.
“It’s been so lovely to live in, it’s a magnificent place. People imagine concrete to be cold and stark, but it’s a warm and hospitable home,” says the owner.
The ground floor hosts most of the living. With two living areas, an open-plan kitchen and a large lounge with fireplace and French doors running the length of the north-facing terrace which overlooks the 19-metre lap pool.
Bordered by abundant native trees and the ensuing birdlife, the owners have relished the quiet and retreat the home has given them.
The ground floor hosts most of the living with two living areas, an open-plan kitchen and a large lounge with fireplace and French doors running the length of the north-facing terrace. Photo / Supplied
Upstairs is the master bedroom with ensuite, and two further bedrooms. The fourth bedroom and guest bathroom is downstairs. Photo / Supplied
Ray White agent Harry Champtaloup, who is marketing the property, echoes the sentiment.
“You feel a real sense of peacefulness and tranquillity, there is a remarkable amount of mature greenery surrounding the outdoor living areas.
“Its elevation and contour of the land makes you feel like you’re in your own incredible sanctuary, nestled in Herne Bay,” adds Champtaloup.
Certainly, the extraordinary privacy of the home is something of a find in these parts, making the property all the more appealing.
Upstairs, the master bedroom incorporates an ensuite, with two showers, mosaic tiles and stainless steel accents. It shares the floor with two further bedrooms, with the fourth bedroom and guest bathroom downstairs, making it the ideal guest accommodation.
“With the functional layout and considered separation of the master wing, it really does make a lot of sense as a family home while serving as a grand architectural and undemanding home,” Champtaloup adds.
