While owners Frank and Robin enjoyed living at their prized Remuera penthouse at Kingsridge for more than 20 years, they had dwelled at the address itself for far longer.
They were living around the corner on Woodley Avenue and on a whim about 40 years ago, visited an open home at 424 Remuera Road. Despite having no plans to buy a new house at the time, they were struck by the spectacular ridgeline outlook, lovely garden and fantastic location, so bought it on the spot.
Fast forward 20 years when developer Peter Turner came to them with an offer they couldn’t refuse. “He made a deal with us and the neighbours, buying the two properties, merging the sites and building Kingsridge,” says Frank.
As part of the deal, the couple negotiated the premium north-facing penthouse that stretches along the front of the well-established, landmark complex and were able to tailor it to their precise requirements.
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Designed by Sumich Architects, the well-known, solid masonry building comprises just 12 apartments and Frank and Robin’s original gardens have been beautifully retained out the front.
Spanning 273sqm over a single level, No 502 incorporates three bedrooms, including a spacious primary with his-and-hers ensuites and wardrobe spaces, three bathrooms, a spacious home theatre and flexible open-plan living spaces.
Floor-to-ceiling glass frames the views and the inside flows out to two covered, travertine marble terraces at either end of the home.
Frank says that being on the fifth floor, you’re not looking down on the outlook, you’re immersed in it. “We will miss that view, it’s perfectly positioned to enjoy the sea and sun.”
The 237sqm penthouse has three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living areas and three car parks, and is one of 12 apartments in Kingsridge. Photo / Supplied
“I hope the next owner enjoys it as much as us,” says the owner. Photo / Supplied
The inside flows out to two covered, travertine marble terraces at either end of the home. Photo / Supplied
The extraordinary vistas showcase the city skyline, the harbour, Rangitoto and as far as the eye can see to the eastern coastline. They are just as stunning at night, as the city lights up.
As Frank’s business was Parkinson & Bouskill, he imported huge amounts of marble and the custom Portuguese Rosa Aurora marble fireplace he had made for their original home at No 424 now enjoys pride of place in the apartment.
As well as three carparks and good storage on the level two parking area, there is space for a good-sized workshop, where Frank has tinkered over the years.
Location is another huge drawcard of this northern slopes neighbourhood. It’s across the road from Remuera Library and a short, level stroll from shops, cafes and restaurants. This is complemented by easy access to public transport and motorway access.
Frank and Robin have now retired across the road to 7 Saint Vincent, leaving their beloved apartment ready for its next chapter. “I hope the next owner enjoys it as much as us.”
Kingsridge complex was developed by Peter Turner and designed by Sumich Architects 20 years ago. Photo / Supplied
The extraordinary vistas showcase the city skyline, the harbour, Rangitoto and as far as the eye can see to the eastern coastline. Photo / Supplied
David Rainbow from Bayleys, who is selling the penthouse with David Nightingale, says what’s on offer here is very special, in terms of location, proportions and outlook.
“Along that ridge there’s really nothing comparable to it and we’re thrilled to be involved. It’s very rare to find an apartment where all principal rooms are looking north. A glass wall on the end of each terrace means you look out north, east and west, and it’s lovely and light inside.”
The apartment is beautifully presented and there is scope to add a personal touch, if desired. “Spaces are very generous, with a high stud throughout and well-proportioned rooms.”
David also says that due to the boutique nature of Kingsridge, you only have 11 neighbours and at only five floors high, you don’t lose association with the ground in the penthouse.
In terms of price expectation, he says that as the campaign is in its early stages buyer feedback hasn’t been obtained as yet, however he notes the RV of $7.6 million.
- 502/424 Remuera Road in Remuera, Auckland, is for sale, deadline closing October 7
