COOL CHANGE

This stunner from the 1960s in a secret bush setting is, surprisingly, in the heart of Remuera, writes DONNA FLEMING

When David and Linda Lilburne decided to move from Titirangi so they could be closer to good schools for their daughters, they thought it would mean sacrificing living in a beautiful bush setting.

So they were surprised and delighted when they found a home in Remuera that was not only a stone’s throw from prestigious schools, but also surrounded by stunning native trees.

“I didn’t want to live in suburbia but this house doesn’t feel like that at all,” says David. “It is very unique for Remuera.”

The 1960s home is situated in a quiet cul-de-sac in a secret green pocket of Remuera that even many locals are unaware of. Crocus Place gained its name thanks to once being planted with the hardy flowers, and the Lilburnes understand that the 1234sq m piece of land their home is on was formerly the garden of one of the grand old homes on nearby Arney Rd.

Tucked away down a private driveway, their home sits among mature trees, including lots of nikau. But unlike some homes in bush settings that end up dark and damp, the Lilburne house is light, bright and warm thanks to the fact that there is ample space between the surrounding flora and the house.

It also helps that there are plenty of windows bringing light in, including skylights the couple had installed. David and Linda have done quite a lot to the home in the 10 years they’ve owned it, including moving walls to open up spaces, putting in a striking designer kitchen and decorating throughout.

They’ve successfully enhanced the house, built in 1969, for modern living while preserving its unique 60s features, like the slate floor and wall in the entrance, and the wooden staircase.

“We weren’t particularly fans of ’60s style before we moved here, but we like that it is quirky and different,” says David.

They also like the fact that the home is very flexible , with rooms whose use can be changed according to needs. For example, a room downstairs can be used as a media room kids’ playroom, home office, living room for visitors or an extra bedroom.

The lower level of the home also includes two bedrooms and a bathroom, and could be turned into a self-contained guest suite. There’s also a double garage and behind it a huge man cave/storage room that has been the ideal place for bikes and sporting equipment.

Upstairs are two more bedrooms, including the principal bedroom with en suite and large wardrobe, plus a family bathroom and laundry. A second living area is accessed off the main living/dining/ kitchen space, which features a striking cathedral-style ceiling. Also off the living room is a study.

The main living area opens out to a generous, sunny and private deck that runs the length of the house and leads to the solar-heated swimming pool. Another deck alongside the pool, with a pergola and outdoor fireplace, is the perfect spot for entertaining, and David’s favourite thing to do is sit in the nearby spa pool at night, listening to music.

“With all the trees, you feel like you’re in a resort in Fiji,” he says.

“It’s so quiet and private yet we are so close to Newmarket, and also it’s so easy to get to the motorway,” adds Linda, who works in West Auckland.

With their daughters Zoe and Kate heading to university, it is time for a change.

Agent Steen Nielsen of Ray White says the home is ideal for families, from those with smaller children to teens. “It’s what I call a forever home because the layout means when your children are smaller and you want them close to you, you can do that, but once they get older there is separation with the downstairs rooms.

“And it really is such a wonderful and special location.”

Sale: Auction July 22

Contact: Steen Nielsen, Ray White, 027 557 8336

“With all the trees, you feel like you’re in a resort in Fiji.”