Some homes are renovated. Others are completely reimagined.
Positioned on a premium - remarkably flat - street in the heart of Orakei, this home began life as a modest 1930s three-bedroom, one-bathroom residence. Its current owner saw something very different.
A daughter within Auckland's renowned Leuschke architectural family, she grew up in the area and had always dreamed of renovating one of its classic builds and admired this home. Rare as they are, when she discovered this home was coming to market, there was no hesitation. She and her family literally left their food sitting on the table at a local cafe, raced over to see it - and put in an offer that very weekend. They bought the home they had long dreamed about.
What followed was not simply a renovation, but a major architectural transformation.
Virtually none of the original interior remains. Instead, the home has been completely reimagined for contemporary family living, combining clean architectural lines with dramatic black floor-to-ceiling glazing, a sleek designer kitchen, and beautifully considered bathrooms finished with floor-to-ceiling tiles.
The former detached garage has been incorporated into the home, creating an entirely new sense of space and flow.
Today, the original part of the house accommodates three bedrooms and the family bathroom, with the hallway drawing you through to a beautiful dining space, expansive glazing and the designer kitchen beyond.
Then comes the extension - and this is where the home really changes character.
The living room is wrapped in dramatic black-framed floor-to-ceiling glass, looking directly onto established greenery and bamboo. Private, green and incredibly peaceful, it creates an almost Japanese Zen-like atmosphere and a wonderful sense of separation from the outside world.
Upstairs, the main bedroom provides its own private retreat.
Outside has been given just as much thought.
What was once a sloping and difficult-to-use front garden has been levelled to create a sunny, fully fenced lawn - a fantastic secure space for children and pets.
At the rear, decking, a spa pool and outdoor living enjoy wonderful all-day sun and privacy, while a long strip of lawn running alongside the house provides even more room for children and four-legged family members.
And for all this serenity, the convenience is exceptional.
Orakei School is approximately a three-minute walk away and has been a genuine part of this family's life, with both children attending the local school. Selwyn College is an easy bus ride, while a nearby walkway connects through to Coates Avenue and public transport into the city.
Coates Avenue itself is one of the neighbourhood's great assets - a genuine village community with cafes, dining, a bar, butcher, hairdresser, post office, superette and everyday essentials close at hand.
You're also moments from Eastridge Shopping Centre, within easy reach of Auckland's beautiful Eastern Bays and beaches, and conveniently positioned for motorway connections and access across the city.
It is a location that delivers the best of Orakei: a premium flat street, excellent community amenities, schools and beaches close by, yet with a remarkable feeling of privacy once you're home.
The current owners talk about the peace, privacy and serenity they have loved here. It's easy to understand why.
Architecturally transformed. Sun-filled. Private. Family-friendly. And positioned in one of Orakei's most desirable streets.
They fell for it in a day.
The next family might just do the same.
To all agents: Conjunctionals are welcome!
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