Renovated to perfection in Taupaki
This beautifully renovated 1930s bungalow is ideal for families seeking a low maintenance lifestyle in an outstanding location close to the city and country. Rakesh Krishnan explores.
Facing the tranquil environs of the local reserve and offering a village vibe in one of the most popular lifestyle locations in the northwest, this brilliantly renovated bungalow is a harmonious blend of 1930s character and 21st century comforts. Just four minutes from Waitakere township, an easy drive to Muriwai Beach and a quick drive (off-peak) to the CBD, it is perfect for homeowners ready to get out of the big city and seek something closer to the country while snuggling up to amenities and work hubs.
The village dates back to the late 1800s but the vibe hasn’t changed a lot. According to Brent, the owner, despite the passage of time, it has retained its friendly ambience. “In this community you are with neighbours you know,” he says. Brent acquired the property – which consists of an unusual two lots on one title – in 2014 after seeing the potential for breathing new life into what was a beautiful but run down residence. “It needed a lot work but since I do home renovations for a living, I knew what I could achieve here,” he says.
Brent spent months restoring the home back to its former glory, infusing modern comforts such as an HRV system, but still managed to keep the classic look of a home of its era. The renovation has been of such a high quality that in 2016 the producers of the TV series ‘Hillary’ reached out to Brent for filming some scenes of the iconic mountaineer’s early life. “That is the finest tribute to the home’s authenticity,” he says. Stepping from the large entertaining deck through carefully restored French doors into the open-plan dining/lounge with a closed wood fire. The large bay window with a seat brings in wide angle views of the park. The original country kitchen is still in very good condition.
The flexible layout allows you to easily close off the different wings and turn the house into either three bedrooms plus one bedroom or two bedrooms plus two bedrooms. The generous light-filled master bed comes with separate his and her wardrobes and a door leading to the semi-ensuite.
The two bathrooms have been upgraded to a very high standard with Englefield showers, vanities, a free standing bath, Karndean flooring and premium Methven tapware. There is an extra living room at the rear of the house, with a full kitchen sink, cupboards and benches. This is currently being used as a laundry plus kitchenette.
Brent, a motoring enthusiast who owns several vehicles, has provided ample parking options. As well as a large double garage (which is alarmed with the house) there is the bonus of a massive 4-car garage that is independently alarmed. Plus, being fastidious about home safety,he has installed six security cameras around and within the house.
Local residents like to say there are two categories of people in this world – people who live in Taupaki and people who want to live in Taupaki. Mighty hard to disagree.