HOME, BEACH AND VIEWS CONNECT

Beachfront home perfect for relaxation, writes GABRIELLE NOOIJEN

An otherwise uneventful stroll along the beach and the discovery of an immaculate site, water-fronted with untiring views and bordered by po¯ hutukawas, initiated what the owners of 261 O¯ maha Drive describe as “A beautiful chapter in our lives.”

The couple didn’t waste any time securing that site some 20 years ago, which at the time was one of the last available waterfront sections, positioned at the tip of O¯ maha’s peninsula and overlooking its remarkable harbour.

The home they went on to build on the 568sq m section is the place of summers surrounded by family and the result of a seemingly straightforward but critical brief: “To create a home filled with light but still balance the need for privacy, with a connection to the beach and panoramic views of the water,” says the owner. A brief given to and perfectly executed by award-winning architect Alastair Kay, with whom the couple had worked on preceding builds and who they describe as “a master of light and space”.

The couple’s additional brief for a low maintenance home was also delivered. They wanted a home that was easy, where holidays were spent relaxing, not mowing lawns and cleaning. The result was a contemporary cedar house, laid with hardwood floors, and a beach garden extended from a large kwila deck, inhabited by native flaxes and seagrass that blend with the landscape and demand little upkeep.

White walls and cabinetry together with liberal steel framed bi- folding doors and windows throughout permit a very real sense of light and space. Though simultaneously the design has achieved a good deal of privacy from the surrounding houses, which was key for the owners, who, once the front door was closed wanted to feel completely removed from everything and be aware of only the view.

The courtyard serves as the centre of the home, “Perfectly sheltered from the wind and creates a bright, secluded space for barbecue lunches or sunbathing. We needed a space that the whole family could gather and reconnect,” says the owner.

In 2010 the second floor was constructed, giving the invaluable addition of a living and sleeping area for the children and teenagers.

Located at the end of the peninsula, the property is in the coveted, established and more quiet part of O¯ maha; adequately removed from much of the street noise and passing cars. “It’s been a great place to learn to ride a bike or play cricket with the neighbours,” the owner adds. The property’s double garage comfortably stores all the essential sports gear, bikes and water sports equipment.

Di Balich, from Precision Real Estate adds, “The property is magnificent. It is without doubt one of the best waterfront properties on the harbour, with a magical position.” Sale: Auction February 27

Contact: Di Balich, Precision, 021 917 080

It is without doubt one of the best waterfront properties on the harbour, with a magical position.