Designed by celebrated local architect Warwick Lee and constructed around 1980, John and Angela’s peaceful and stylish home, set on 602sqm, down a private driveway in Seaview Road, had been completely updated – including new cladding, when they purchased it in 2015, and John says that they’ve barely needed to lift a finger since then.
“We were able to simply move in and enjoy it.” The couple liked the layout of the house, which has a number of interesting twists and turns over split levels.
Soaring cathedral ceilings and tall windows in the front entrance lobby provide an initial sense of splendour. “This space is a feature in itself and very architectural,” says Angela.
She has especially appreciated the elegant, modern downstairs kitchen dining and living areas, which have a very simple, yet sophisticated vibe and flow beautifully, allowing for entertaining at scale or enjoying more intimate times.
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The first three bedrooms are situated upstairs along with a sunny study.
Angela says that the north-facing views from up here are beautiful and panoramic – sweeping towards the harbour, where ships regularly pass by.
Meanwhile, a fourth bedroom – with bathroom, at ground level, has been dubbed the “West Wing” by John and Angela and provides self-contained accommodation for guests – who often include the couple’s grown-up children and small grandchildren.
The elegant, modern downstairs kitchen-dining and living areas have a simple, yet sophisticated vibe. Photo / Supplied
The vendors have enjoyed the layout of the house with a number of interesting twists and turns over split levels. Photo / Supplied
John and Angela think the West Wing may have been intended as a pool room because they understand that the terrace was especially strengthened to allow for future owners to install a swimming pool. That may still be possible, as may adding a second storey above the existing double garage.
“The little ones just love this property because they can run around, up and down the two staircases, and find so many places to hide,” says Angela.
While they confess to not being natural-born gardeners, the couple has taken pride in the smart neat landscaping that surrounds their home, and the neat hedges have been regularly and meticulously pruned.
“Apart from that it’s just a case of sweeping up leaves,” says Angela.
She and John are heading for pastures new, with an open mind as to where that might be. “We’ll just get the selling process here over with first,” he says.
The property, which is zoned double grammar, enjoys views of the harbour. Photo / Supplied
The 314sqm home has four bedrooms and three bathrooms, and has been completely updated. Photo / Supplied
The pair hope to stay in touch with several nearest neighbours who are very pleasant and friendly, and say they will especially miss the local cafes, many of which are within easy walking distance. The property is zoned double grammar, with great private schools nearby and it’s a quick journey to Auckland’s CBD – as well as to Parnell, Newmarket and Remuera Village.
Steve Koerber, from Bayleys, says that John and Angela’s property is extremely well presented and offers significant versatility in terms of use.
“Seaview Road is one of Remuera’s most coveted streets and is defined by its upper and lower east and west sides. This stunning home arguably enjoys the best quadrant for sun, aspect, elevation and stunning harbour views.”
- 12A Seaview Road in Remuera, Auckland, goes to auction on October 29
