With its sun-soaked interiors, resort-style pool setting and an attic sanctuary retreat that looks out to Rangitoto Island, this exceptional new build St Heliers home balances family living with soulful spaces and reflects simplicity, calm, and intentional living.
The design is grounded in modern minimalism, with neutral tones and natural elements inspired by Zen and Wabi-Sabi philosophy – embracing balance, perfection through imperfection, and a connection to nature.
From the street, the home presents a simple and sculptural form and maximises the site. Owners Gavin and Fiona spent two years on design, resource consents and the build to create what was meant to be their forever family home.
Five bedrooms, each with an ensuite – one for each member of the family – and an extra room for guests. Four living areas for the family to spread out or come together, and a one-of-a-kind “zen” attic space atop the three-storey home which Fiona jokingly calls Gavin’s “man cave” as it’s his favourite retreat in the home, though it’s a space that they all enjoy.
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Gavin describes the mood as “wabi sabi” because of its natural simplicity. Here the floor is laid with Japanese tatami mat seating area. It’s a quiet elevated space to relax with tea or coffee, meditate, take in the sweeping views to the water and Rangitoto or practise Pilates and has become a unique part of the home.
“We’re on the highest point of the street so we collaborated closely with our architect and engineers to thoughtfully maximise this position,” Gavin says. “By carefully extending the height within allowable limits, we were able to unlock expansive views.”
Roof windows provide natural ventilation, keeping the space comfortable even during summer.
The design is grounded in modern minimalism, with neutral tones and natural elements inspired by Zen and Wabi-Sabi philosophy. Photo / Supplied
The one-of-a-kind “zen” attic is a quiet space to relax with tea or coffee, meditate, take in the views or practise Pilates. Photo / Supplied
In contrast, the outdoor cabana offers a more social setting and is Gavin’s second favourite “room” in the home. A place to gather for BBQs, share a beer, and watch the kids play in the pool.
A dedicated solar heating system also keeps the swimming pool warm year-round, and there’s an outdoor shower too.
Other special features of this extraordinary home include a striking outdoor spiral staircase that connects the cabana and pool area to the second floor living area; and a lift – which proved useful when Gavin’s elderly parents recently came to stay.
While walk-in wardrobe does not adequately describe the spacious dressing room – with a place for everything – adjoining the master bedroom.
Complete with bespoke wardrobes, a dedicated seating area for putting on footwear, and a full-length mirror.
“We like the simplicity of the design and try to be clutter-free,” Fiona explains.
Each of the five bedrooms is an ensuite. Photo / Supplied
This philosophy and design aesthetic is carried throughout the home with carefully selected soft furnishings and beautifully finished cabinetry and timber flooring in the kitchen, tiled bathrooms, and bedrooms decorated with Emma Hayes wallpaper while Nightworks Studio, and Snelling (lighting) also add to the layer of craftsmanship and local identity.
The couple made a conscious effort to support Kiwi creatives and friends often comment admiringly “on its art studio vibe”.
“The home also had to be cosy. The flow was also important to the design. The indoor-outdoor flow had to make sense. We also like a bright sunny house, so it has been designed to invite sunlight in,” says Fiona.
Double glazing traps the heat and there’s underfloor gas heating on the ground level. Central air conditioning throughout the home can heat or cool all spaces.
Having spent a lot of time living in Malaysia, Fiona admits she doesn’t like being cold. Interior living spaces include formal and informal dining areas, plus a hangout spot for the kids while Fiona and Gavin prep dinner, and a small living area that overlooks the pool.
The 374sqm floor plan includes five bedrooms, five bathrooms, a double garage, off-street parking, and multiple living areas. Photo / Supplied
The cabana is a place to gather for barbecues, share a beer and watch the kids in the pool. Photo / Supplied
This beautifully considered and meticulously executed home inevitably exceeded its original budget, with construction taking place during the challenges of Covid-era price escalations and material shortages.
This, combined with the family’s desire to move into a different school zone for their daughters, is the reason they are farewelling their dream home and they’re philosophical about it.
“Luxury properties can sometimes have the style but not the quality. This home is the true embodiment of both – where refined aesthetics meet exceptional craftmanship,” says Ray Chan, of Ray White.
“And how often do you find an architecturally designed attic transformed into a coastal-view lounge and office? A genuine labour of love in every sense.”
2A Glen Atkinson Street in Saint Heliers, Auckland, goes to auction on June 20.
- Sponsored by Ray White
