EURO LOOKALIKE
Couple who travel a lot wanted a Kiwi home with Spanish, Italian, and French themes, writes LOUISE RICHARDSON
ALBANY 209 Gills Road 4 3 2
Steve and Gretchen Darling spend much of their time travelling, so it’s no surprise that the house they built at Albany Heights in 2005 is a blend of their favourite Italian and Spanish themes, with a touch of Provence in the mix. “We gave our builders, Masonry Design Solutions, some photos of places we liked, and they interpreted those ideas perfectly,” says Steve. The result is a home large in every way — four bedrooms, 362sq m of floor area, high ceilings, huge kitchen, dining and living areas. There’s an open fireplace too. “We got our timing just right and put this in just before council changed the by-laws,” says Steve. “We use it from May to September every year and we love it.” The kitchen is hard-working with ample bench space, a butler’s sink and a quality multi-burner gas stove. A scullery enables Steve and Gretchen to keep food and kitchen appliances out of sight. The separate dining room, which has a gas fireplace, was originally intended to be used by Gretchen in her work as an executive coach and business strategist. “We imagined having her clients here around the boardroom table, then eating outside on the patio,” says Steve. “But in the end we only did that a few times. If you didn’t want this as a dining room, it would be a great formal lounge.” The colours throughout are cool and restful and the European flavour of the decor is classic and timeless. With three bathrooms there are plenty of options for guests and the views from every window are spectacular. Steve says that in summer he and Gretchen spend a great deal of time outdoors and enjoy entertaining on their terrace, under the shade of large sun umbrellas. “The Italianate garden looks great and it’s surprisingly easycare. I jump on my ride-on mower and get the lawns done in a very short time. The star jasmine does very well and its scent floats around in summer, along with lavender and orange blossom.” Steve has plans to further landscape the 4000sq m section, including adding a pool and
“We’ve realised that we’re not really in New Zealand enough to justify such a large home.”
orchard. “It was something we intended to do.” Although it’s only moments from Albany village, close to excellent schools and within easy access of the motorway, there’s a real country feel to the property, with its rolling grass
and extensive views. “Like many busy people we’ve realised that we’re not really in New Zealand enough to justify such a large home, so we’re looking at buying an apartment, perhaps even in France.” Meantime, Steve Darling’s mother-in-law Cecilia McNicholl is selling the family home at 219 Gills Rd, where she’s lived for over 40 years. It’s on 6252sq m and the house and its outbuildings offer a number of bedrooms and bathrooms, with loads of potential. There is a pool and fruit and olive trees. Ivan Rakich from Century 21 says that both properties have much to recommend them. “209 Gills Rd would be one of the most admired houses in the Albany area and potential buyers are hugely impressed. “We’re getting interest from as far afield as Singapore and Hong Kong from people who can see what a luxury retreat it is.”
Price: $3,490,000 Contact: Keith McNair, Century 21, 021 947 557; Barney Cornaga, 021 725 915