HOUSE OF THE WEEK
Brimming with the charm of yesteryear, perfectly harmonising with the quality conveniences of today, this slice of Cambridge history is waiting for its next lucky owner to make wonderful memories here.All the work has been done to create this modern farmhouse aesthetic – all you have to do is move in, and start enjoying the magic of Waikato River views and Pirongia sunsets.
Nestled on a large section in the middle of town, and only metres from the entry to the Te Awa River cycling trails, this family home has been meticulously renovated with carefully handpicked, quality fittings and furnishings throughout – the result of plenty of love and labour for owners Brendan Hutton and Emily Kearney.
Searching the length and breadth of the country for pieces to enhance the character of the home, which dates back to 1897, the couple and their team of friends and tradies has achieved a seamless cohesion of colonial elegance and chic modern simplicity.
The result is simply stunning: A warm and inviting home with a traditional, country feel, with both rustic and industrial touches.
A roomy and sun drenched entryway sets the tone for what’s to come, and for Bayleys Cambridge salesperson Amanda Merrington creates a feeling reminiscent of stepping into a luxury Arrowtown guesthouse, with its ambient lighting, and a glowing log burner and floor to ceiling feature wood stack, against the shiplap timber backdrop.
At the heart of this elegant residence is a stylish and highly functional country kitchen, complete with lit, barn door accessed pantry, and dining space. The family chef will love the abundance of space and storage as well as quality modern appliances on offer. With windows on both sides allowing for an abundance of natural light, the dining space is the ideal spot for brunch.
In winter, rest easy knowing the majority of the home is insulated, and cosy up in front of the log-burning fireplace in the spacious living area and enjoy luxurious underfloor heating in both bathrooms and the convenience of a blue tooth enabled heatpump for busy occupants. In summertime, throw open the doors to the beautiful mahogany decking complete with recessed lighting, and a fire pit, where you can enjoy a glass of wine with friends while overlooking the Waikato River. The beautiful low-maintenance, landscaped gardens feature plenty of colour in summer and its only fitting that they have tui filled trees and even a resident Ruru singing his nightly lullaby.
‘‘For the keen host, the multiple entertainment areas are designed to follow the sun around the house meaning the drinks can flow all day and through into the night,’’ says Amanda.
Inside, and under 2.7m raised ceilings, three bedrooms, the master with its own walk-in wardrobe and tiled ensuite, a second modern family bathroom and a rumpus room, which could easily serve a family as a fourth bedroom or home office, with french doors leading out to decking.
Striking one-of-a-kind features include the front door, sourced from an old train station in Motueka, brushed gold fixtures and fittings, reclaimed timber shelving and countertops, and custom-made barn doors throughout.
Once through the automated rustic sliding entrance gate, there is off-street parking for six or more cars and exterior feature lighting to guide your way on those dark winter evenings. A separate double garage and wood shed complete this alluring picture.
‘‘As our first home, we wanted a house full of character and potential. We’ve loved seeing the house reach its full potential. Timely lockdowns allowed for days painting recently relined and insulated walls and windows, laying floors, building fences, landscaping, planting and more,’’ says Emily.
‘‘Brendan and I both work full time, so to come home to a
peaceful spot in town, where every detail has been taken care of throughout the renovation brings us a lot of satisfaction. There is plenty of space on the property for our dogs, Nala and Lily, to run around, with electric gates and fencing all round meaning they are safe and secure. We designed the gardens to be stylish and functional for entertaining as well as low maintenance to fit in with our busy routines. A newly installed log fire in the centre of the house provides both comfort and warmth on cold, wintry evenings. The house was designed for those wanting an easy, hassle-free lifestyle.’’
It’s an ideal forever home for families, being in zone for Cambridge Primary School and with St Peter’s School less than five minutes’ drive away. Enjoy a short stroll to the town centre, Medical centre and weekend Farmers markets, and with the Te Awa River Cycle trails on your doorstep, the bikes will get plenty of use.
With the owners reluctantly letting go of their dream home, you have the opportunity to make your own dream a reality. Call Amanda Merrington from Bayleys Cambridge today for a private viewing.