Built in the early 1900s – when Birkenhead was still an idyllic rural area, filled with farms and orchards boasting views back to Auckland’s bustling port and CBD, 6 Glade Place still speaks to another more elegant era, when carefully considered architecture and using the best available building materials was very important.
The owners are just the fourth owners of the classic Edwardian kauri villa, having bought it 45 years ago.
“We had two small children and one on the way when we moved in and we understand the property had started life as a small kauri cottage in 1875, and the main house was constructed a few years later.
“When we eventually came to remodelling it, in 1994, we sold the cottage – which was then shipped to Waiheke Island. Everything we added had to be indistinguishable from what was originally there,” the owners say.
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Having engaged local builders who enjoyed the challenge it presented for them – working with the 100mm wide kauri floorboards, 12ft studs, decorative ceilings, bay windows and ornate exterior fretwork, the owners were thrilled with the result.
They explain that the house was now much more liveable, with a kitchen that basks in all-day sun, plus a family room and a separate lounge – as well as a formal dining room.
There are also three bedrooms on the ground level, plus a bathroom and separate toilet, while the master suite upstairs has an adjacent bathroom, a dressing room and a balcony which provides a stunning view across the Hauraki Gulf.
The 310sqm home has four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a double garage and multiple living zones. Photo / Supplied
The 1917sqm site has dual entry, via Glade Lane or Glade Place, with space in the front lawn for a swimming pool if the new owners want. Photo / Supplied
The owners think that the giant 1917sqm site’s dual entry, via Glade Lane or alternatively Glade Place, adds a stately aspect to the property and although they have pared back the extensive garden recently, it’s still green and very abundant.
The couple understands that there was once a tennis court on a section in front that was then part of the property. Clearly it is possible to add in a swimming pool if future owners wanted to. Schools in the neighbourhood are well regarded, and the property is on the bus route to popular private Kristin School in Albany.
Agent Mark Robinson says this is a landmark Birkenhead Point property – well known and much admired.
While it is centrally located close to the ferry and to the charming shops, cafes and restaurants of Hinemoa Street, it enjoys a peaceful serene atmosphere behind a traditional picket fence and is a perfect place for escaping city life.
The owners hired local builders to preserve the special characters of the classic Edwardian-era kauri villa. Photo / Supplied
There are modern aspects to the 120-year-old home such as the kitchen. Photo / Supplied
“It’s been 30 years or so since the owners extended the house so it’s ready for a modern makeover, but the fundamental aspects have all been done well and this is a great chance for someone else to add their own style and personality.”
He says that houses in Birkenhead Point are tightly held so this is a genuinely rare opportunity.
6 Glade Place in Birkenhead, North Shore, Auckland, is on the market for sale by deadline, closing March 4.
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