SUPER FINE
LOUISE RICHARDSON checks out a stunning home in a quiet cul-de-sac in Glendowie.
When owners John and Katrina first discovered their dream section in a quiet Glendowie cul-de-sac, close to Tahuna Torea Nature Reserve, they were keen to get started on building their dream home.
“It ended up taking a while as the consents process always does, and, in the meantime, we lived with our almost grown-up children in the original house, which was very small, but we all survived!,” says John.
He and Katrina quickly engaged Brent Hulena of Hulena Architects as their concept architect because they’d always admired his work and they were thrilled with what he came up with, working closely with the couple to incorporate all the things they dreamed of.
Once George Evangelidakis from Principle Homes was on board too, John and Katrina had their dream team so the cottage was moved off the site, and things began to take shape at 10 Calder Place, which goes to auction on April 29.
The finished product, completed four years ago, is a truly high-quality elevated executive home where every tiny detail has been carefully considered and no expense spared. “We wanted to have open plan, resort-style living and that’s exactly what we got,” says John.
Set over three levels, with a double garage on the entrance floor, the ground floor is where all the living takes place with a massive superbly equipped kitchen at its heart, plus a butler’s pantry, all surrounded by a dining area and living room, beyond which is a huge sunny patio.
There’s a separate laundry and a powder room at the opposite end along with another lounge, a bedroom and bathroom. This part of the house is perfect for teenagers, extended family or guests.
On the first floor, two bedrooms and a bathroom lie in one wing, then there’s yet another living room and another double bedroom alongside the master suite with its dressing room and luxury his and hers ensuite.
Hamish McKay from Ray White, Mission Bay says that it’s one of the finest homes he’s ever seen. “Every single room has a view right around Rangitoto to Waiheke and far beyond and while the decor throughout the house is absolutely beautiful and there’s space galore, I get the feeling that the owners spend most of their time in the loggia with its massive 5m high ceiling.”
John and Katrina agree. “To be honest, since the children left home that truly is where we do most of our living. It’s such a gorgeous, sunny spot,” she says.
Hamish says potential buyers look stunned when they see what’s on offer – including an eight-person spa for the ultimate in indulgence.
The owners enjoyed the process of creating this sublime home so much, they’re doing it again nearby and if the new owners are nice, which they’re sure to be, Katrina and John wonder if they’ll be invited to visit. “It would be so nice to keep a connection – we’ve poured so much of ourselves into making it perfect!” she says.
Sale: Auction, April 29 Contact: Hamish McKay, Ray White Mission Bay, 021 641 165; Jo Eddington, 021 999 776