“I think this house was already ahead of its time, design-wise, when my wife Karen and I bought it in 2013,” says owner David, of their central Parnell home.
The solid masonry executive dwelling, which was completed around 2005, is extremely substantial at around 600sqm – including covered decks – and sits on a generous 716sqm level site, providing all the space David and Karen were looking for with two then-young sons and twin daughters to accommodate.
“It also had the flexibility we needed for guests because I’m British and Karen is from South Africa which means we often have family and friends to stay for long periods of time,” he says.
As well as looking after the house diligently, David and Karen have added their own touches, particularly in the form of stylish built-in fitted furniture in the living areas and bedrooms, created by craftsman-designer Wim De+ Bruin.
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“It doesn’t only look good, it’s also been great for keeping the family organised,” says David.
He says that the home’s layout was obviously very carefully considered by the people who built it, with the cool, contemporary Morgan Cronin kitchen situated on the top level, forming the heart of casual dining and living areas.
Also on this floor is a guest powder room and formal lounge where adults can escape the din of everyday life.
The giant deck beyond is reached via glass doors and can be used year-round, thanks to outdoor heaters and a louvred roof.
The vendors have added their own touches, particularly in the form of stylish built-in fitted furniture in the living areas and bedrooms. Photo / Supplied
Bayleys agent Vicki Wallace says: “They’ve done some lovely landscaping work, and the fitted furniture is very stylish.” Photo / Supplied
A fully equipped media room, stars on the middle level, along with an impressive wine cellar, which is David’s pride and joy. Two double bedrooms enjoy ensuites, and the palatial master suite has an elegant, tiled bathroom, enviable walk-in wardrobe, gas fireplace and sunny private deck.
There are two bedrooms – one with ensuite – and a rumpus room or gym downstairs (complete with kitchenette), plus access to the heated pool. An elevator that runs between floors provides drama when it’s lit up at night, while an automatic turntable makes getting in and out of the triple garaging easy.
“Our girls learned to ride their bikes on the turntable. It was just perfect,” he laughs.
After 12 happy years, David and Karen have entrusted the marketing of their home to Gary and Vicki Wallace, of Bayleys, who sold it to them originally.
The vendors’ daughters learnt to ride their bikes on the turntable. Photo / Supplied
The solid masonry executive dwelling, which was completed around 2005, is extremely substantial at around 600sqm – including covered decks. Photo / Supplied
“It feels like we’re going full circle – they already know the property very well,” David says.
Vicki notes that not only have the couple looked after 22A Brighton Road meticulously, they’ve also added value. “They’ve done some lovely landscaping work, and the fitted furniture is very stylish.”
She says that the Parnell location is a huge advantage – just a short walk from shops, eateries and public transport, with the CBD in one direction and Newmarket in the other. Their boys have left home so David, Karen and their daughters, now 16, are downsizing a little.
“There’s nothing like a change,” he says.
- 22A Brighton Road in Parnell, Auckland, is for sale by set date, closing October 23
