The storybook charm of this character-filled family home evolved by noted Auckland architect Terry Hitchcock beguiled a couple of psychotherapists nearly 20 years ago.
Mary Farrell, who lives here at 11 Arama Avenue in Titirangi with husband Bill, says, “It has that fairy-tale, gingerbread-house-in-the-woods feel about it which is quite magical.
“There are many wonderful features, such as the amazing ceiling in the master bedroom which has so many different planes you feel like it’s going to take off.”
The couple were instantly captivated by this property in 2003, looking for somewhere larger than their previous Titirangi home for them and their then-teenage son.
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“We understand it started life around 1948 as a little single-storey bach before a local GP had architect Terry Hitchcock design a major renovation in the early ‘70s, extending it into the beautiful three-level home it is today,” Mary says.
The property’s very private and tranquil 1181sqm grounds, featuring many mature kauri trees, are on a no-exit cul-de-sac off South Titirangi Road.
They’re a minute’s walk from Tamariki Reserve and playground and about 500 metres from Jenkins Bay boat ramp’s access into the Manukau Harbour.
The home is set below the road; its driveway sweeping down to a double and single carport adjoining the lower level.
Its picturesque cedar exterior is topped by a terracotta roof, accented by shingled gables. Being set against the backdrop of verdant Arama Reserve, full of native trees, gives that “house in the woods” sense of privacy.
The front door is on the mid-level, which flows out to a substantial north-facing patio out the front and an elevated deck which looks out at the greenery but no other houses at the rear.
Heart rimu glows in features such as sarked ceilings, ceiling beams, window frames, panelling and built-in furniture including bookcases and a sideboard.
It also features in the concertina wall between the front living room and the formal dining room and second living area with Norwegian wood-burner.
This allows this to function as one large open-plan space, opening up to the rear deck in warmer months, or to close off the front living room as a cosy retreat.
Completing this level are the kitchen-informal dining area opening to the patio, the first bedroom and a bathroom-laundry.
Upstairs the master and another bedroom enjoy lofty angled ceilings and lush outlooks, flanking a study and bathroom.
Downstairs’ rumpus room, fourth bedroom, smartly renovated third bathroom plus storage area formed a semi self-contained setup for the Farrell’s son and his wife for a spell.
A brick path wends down past lawn to the beloved inground swimming pool.
“You swim looking up at tuis darting between our magnificent kauri trees, some of which are at least 150 years old,” Mary says.
Mary and Bill are now in their 70s and with their son and daughter-in-law no longer living here, they’ll downsize to a smaller property.
Ray White agent Brendan Smith says, “This very special property with its fairy tale-like family home, swimming pool and beautiful bush outlook is bound to be popular, set in one of Titirangi’s sought-after, premium streets.”
11 Arama Avenue in Titirangi will be sold at auction on July 17.
- This content was created in partnership with Ray White.
