Noted Plimmerton house to feature
Lizzy Quinn’s beachfront home is most recognised for its eccentric mannequin standing in the window, but next month curious people will have the chance to peek inside and see what else the home has to offer.
The Plimmerton house will feature, with 11 other Wellington homes, in the NZ House and Garden Tours, starting on March 14.
People visiting Ms Quinn’s home will be sure to meet Manny Quinn, who is dressed up for every occasion and season.
‘‘She’s the most famous person,’’ Ms Quinn said.
She said the mannequin in the window had become a local sensation.
The real estate agent lived in an apartment in Cuba St before buy- ing the home 12 years ago.
‘‘I have always wanted to live by the sea.’’
The beautiful Plimmerton home with sweeping windows and openplan living was not always the peaceful place it is today.
Ms Quinn said it was a disgusting mess when she bought it.
‘‘I absolutely ripped it apart. I turned this bach into a girly house.’’
Among the first things to go were the walls in the living space and the doors to her bedroom.
She also knocked out a few cupboards to make a bigger bathroom and divided the house into a downstairs apartment and her upstairs home.
‘‘It’s bright, light and colourful and has exquisite views.’’
Her home ended up on the house tour because it was fea- tured in NZ House & Garden magazine a few years ago.
Magazine editor Sally Duggan said the 11 homes on the Wellington tour were a fantastic mix.
‘‘For the Wellington tour we have a fine selection of houses that reflect the region’s landscape and homeowners’ personalities,’’ Ms Duggan said.
‘‘It is always a delight bringing a tour to the capital as Wellingtonians are incredibly supportive of the event.’’
The annual event comprises four tours in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and rural Auckland.
Proceeds from the tours go to two charities – the Cancer Society and Look Good Feel Better.
To buy tickets for NZ House & Garden Tours 2014, go to ticket master.co.nz.