New Zealand architecture aficionados will recognise Andrew Patterson’s signature design drama and innovative and inspired spatial statements at this extraordinary Westmere property.
This was no ordinary commission, as award-winning architect Patterson is the brother of one of the owners and worked closely with his sister and her partner when they built their home in 2006.
“We briefed Andrew when we were a busy, professional couple working in the CBD. We were also away a lot, so we wanted something that was elegant, spacious and timeless, and something that provided us with privacy and security that we needed,” the owner shares.
She notes it was a collaborative process.
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“Andrew is responsible for the concept and the wow factor – like the very high stud and very cool entrance – but my partner is the founder and design director of a successful interiors business and she added a lot of details that make it so special and perfect for us.
“This included specifying the really high quality finishes and fittings, textures and split face block work.”
The residence sits on a 630sqm, perfectly flat, north-facing section on Peel Street. Interiors are a living work of art, where a unique palette of materials and profusion of glass create a beautifully functional haven for living and entertaining.
The ground floor features an open-plan living, dining and kitchen with an open fire, flowing out to the covered patio, garden and private spa area.
“I particularly love the way we’ve got a covered outdoor sitting area that’s in the garden – the garden is inside the house and the house is inside the garden. It’s a year-round space with a heater. It’s really lovely and private when it’s just the two of us but equally you can open the place up and we’ve had great parties here – big gatherings and big Christmases.”
“I particularly love the way we’ve got a covered outdoor sitting area that’s in the garden – the garden is inside the house and the house is inside the garden,” says the owner. Photo / Supplied
The home has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, multiple living zones and garaging for two vehicles, and sits on a 630sqm section. Photo / Supplied
The ground level also includes a dedicated office, a scullery-laundry and the second bedroom and bathroom. The entire upper floor is dedicated to the master retreat and includes a versatile second living room, walk-through dressing room and ensuite with double shower.
Adding significant versatility is a totally separate garden studio, perfect as an additional bedroom, home office, private gym, or yoga room.
“It’s only a two-bedroom home, but with a separate study, a dedicated second lounge and the sleepout. It’s very spacious and flexible. Some people buy a four-bedroom house and they make one a TV room and one a home office. We’ve built those into the design.”
The exquisitely landscaped grounds reflect the design excellence and ingenuity of the residence.
“Suzanne Turley and her team helped us with the gardens as a second stage, after we’d finished the house. It’s very lush and green all year round. There are hedges, scented white gardenias that have just finished flowering, and early in spring we have a beautiful display of clivias.”
Parking includes a two-car garage and secure off-street parking for two more vehicles behind an automatic driveway gate. They have also adored the neighbourhood.
Award-winning architect Andrew Patterson is responsible for the concept and the wow factor like the very high stud and cool entrance, says his sister. Photo / Supplied
The ground floor features an open-plan living, dining and kitchen with an open fire, flowing out to the covered patio, garden and private spa area. Photo / Supplied
“It’s near Ponsonby and it’s a short walk from the West Lynn village’s cafes, bars, and shops. There’s also a big park for walking our dog.”
The owner says living in such a beautiful home has been a pleasure and a privilege. “It’s very special to live in a home that pretty much every single person who has walked into our house in 20 years has said, ‘wow, this is cool!’. It’s hard to capture the specialness of it until you’re actually here.”
Elaine Ferguson, from Ray White, says that it’s a challenge to place a specific value on such a unique home.
“I imagine the ideal buyer will be someone creative who appreciates exceptional New Zealand architecture and loves to entertain. This property offers a cool, timeless private urban retreat while remaining close to the very best of Auckland city living.”
7 Peel Street in Westmere, Auckland, is on the market for sale by negotiation.
- Sponsored by Ray White
