The transformation of the historic former Ford Motor Company premises in Parnell was the talk of the town when its developer launched their new project, Ford Lofts, around eight years ago, enlisting Cheshire Architects to design large, airy apartments with a clever blend of classic industrial and modern features.
The Model T Ford Assembly Plant site – where a car was produced every 20 minutes or so during the 1920s – using components shipped from the United States – took around 30 months’ building work before its re-emergence.
Jude, who currently owns apartment 10, says he was one of the last to buy in the complex.
“It all happened very quickly at the end of 2019. I saw it advertised, signed up, and then moved in three weeks later, not long before the first Covid lockdown,” he says.
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“I had always loved this style of architecture, so I was very excited. The developers were well known for the quality of their homes and for using nothing but the very best materials available.”
He says that he was working at Britomart at the time, so apartment living suited his lifestyle, with an easy walk to and from the office.
Jude says that with a second property at Piha, his city pad had to be an easy lock-up-and-leave property and Ford Lofts certainly fitted the bill with an edgy vibe that reminds him of New York.
Number 10 has a large open-plan living and dining zone with soaring ceilings and an ultra-chic kitchen with a huge centre island and high-end appliances for the serious home cook.
The developer of Ford Lofts enlisted Cheshire Architects to design large, airy apartments with a clever blend of classic industrial and modern features. Photo / Supplied
Much of the building’s original timber and brickwork was reused and is showcased particularly well in this part of the dwelling. Photo / Supplied
Sleek and discreet cupboards provide ample storage. Much of the building’s original timber and brickwork was reused and is showcased particularly well in this part of the dwelling.
A screened porch offers the ideal area for alfresco dining and entertaining with plenty of space for the barbecue.
Upstairs a generous master bedroom enjoys a cool contemporary ensuite, while a smaller bedroom can access the second bathroom while also doubling as a home office. The property comes with two secure basement carparks and extra storage.
Jude says that he has made the most of his easy proximity to great cafes and restaurants with Goodness Gracious, Rhu and Red Rabbit among his favourites.
Public transport is easily accessed, and Parnell also offers a wide range of shops and boutiques while Newmarket with its huge 277 shopping centre is within easy reach.
Number 10 has a 128sqm floor plan comprising two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a north-facing loggia and parking for two vehicles. Photo / Supplied
“You can see that it was an absolute labour of love,” says Ray White listing agent Ross Hawkins, of Ford Lofts complex. Photo / Supplied
Ross Hawkins, from Ray White Orakei, has been an admirer of this prestigious development since he originally marketed it off-the-plans and now, he’s enjoying an ongoing connection with the occasional re-sale, such as this one.
“So, I’ve had a long involvement and I’m impressed at the fact that the whole development still feels so very special.
“You simply couldn’t build something of this quality again – especially the double-glazed steel joinery, and I love the way they re-used bricks and milled the original beams to use in the ceilings.
“You can see that it was an absolute labour of love.”
- 10/15A Augustus Terrace in Parnell, Auckland, is for sale by negotiation
