A lot of love and care went into the design of Celia and Stephen’s special family home in Oratia – often referred to as the “orchard of the west”.
“We bought the land in 2003 and we lived in a garage on the property for several years while we carefully considered how to make the best use of our elevated north-facing 8137sqm site,” she says.
Celia says that the garage was large and very comfortable but finally moving into the house in 2007 was truly exciting, especially because between Stephen, herself and the architect they felt they had successfully nailed the perfect design – a large home that is set across four levels, providing excellent separation for families of all ages.
“When our two children were younger, it was nice for my husband and me having our own wing with an ensuite and lovely views and a large central living area around the kitchen, where we could all come together.”
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She explains that the downstairs level is ideal for guests or extended family – offering space and privacy.
“Our son and his partner have lived down there – and a friend of our daughter’s, along with lots of guests over the years.”
She and Stephen have deliberately kept the interiors of the four-bedroom home quiet and understated because the idyllic, leafy scene outside – viewed through enormous windows – is the true star.
High ceilings contribute to a sense of space – especially in the living and dining zone. Needless to say, the indoor/outdoor flow is easy and relaxed for summer night barbecues on the terrace or cosy winter evenings beside the fire pit.
High ceilings contribute to a sense of space – especially in the living and dining zone. Photo / Supplied
The residence has four bedrooms, multiple living areas, three bathrooms, garaging and off-street parking, a separate double garage and boat port, plus a workshop. Photo / Supplied
Celia says that she has put a great deal of effort into cultivating the garden but although it certainly looks impressive it’s now well-established and needs minimal work.
She would love to see a family with children buying the property because with a pond, a stream and even its own glow worms, it’s a perfect adventure playground for youngsters and their friends.
“Our children loved playing badminton and generally running around,” Celia says.
The idyllic, leafy scenery is the true star of the 8317sqm property. Photo / Supplied
“While we’re lovely and secluded, our nearest neighbours are super-friendly and although it feels like miles away, we’re actually only 10 minutes’ drive from the local Westfield and Kelston or Glen Eden.”
There’s plenty of room for vehicles with a separate double garage and boat port, plus a workshop.
Much as they love their semi-rural home, she and Stephen are at a stage in their lives where downsizing will offer more flexibility for a lock-up-and-leave lifestyle.
“We’ll miss the peaceful surroundings and especially the sound of water in the stream but it’s time to move on.”
The owners say the property is the perfect playground for youngsters with a pond, stream, glow worms and space to run around. Photo / Supplied
“It presents as being meticulously looked after and it’s clear how much effort, heart and soul has gone into creating it,” says one of the agents. Photo / Supplied
Agent Micaela Challis agrees that finding such a wonderful hideaway, not far from the city, makes this property a winner and co-agent Marie Grace adds that she has been impressed by the owners’ attention to detail.
“It presents as being meticulously looked after and it’s clear how much effort, heart and soul has gone into creating it. This is a place where you’ll always feel like you’re on holiday at home.”
99D Carter Road in Oratia, Waitakere, Auckland, is on the market for sale by auction on March 10.
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