Three levels, with Gulf views from every room

60 Sharon Rd, Waiake, North Shore.

This home was developed from the late 1980s to the early 90s by Graeme Avery, a scientist and athlete who founded the medical publishing house Adis International, co-founded the Millennium Institute for Sport and Health, led the fundraising appeal for the East Coast Bays Stadium and was instrumental in establishing the Hawkes Bay Food and Wine Tourism Group after founding Sileni Estates Winery.

Graeme asked his architect George Paterson to create a family home that made the most of its 180-degree views, and where he could also host business functions.

The Robinsons bought the house 3 years ago. Today, it still bears hints of its vintage, but is thoroughly modern. It sprawls over three levels, totalling 920sq m, with about 350sq m of decking. Every room gives at least a glimpse of the Hauraki Gulf.

The most striking feature is the triple-height atrium that begins inside the front door and curves around through the living areas.

The curved ceiling is lined with baby corrugated iron which, with the curved piping that frames it, gives the impression of walking through the hull of a ship. This effect is reinforced on the lower level, where two portholes in the home theatre look directly into the swimming pool.

Triangles are also a recurring feature - they appear in the shape and tiles of the pool, and at other points. Even the formal lounge is triangular.

Stained glass channels shafts of coloured sunlight into different living areas. Several rooms' ceilings are lined with heart rimu, over-height doors are made of rimu, the parquet floor in the kitchen and dining area is Tasmanian oak.

Outside, boardwalks wind between subtropical gardens. A raised gazebo looks across a grassed helipad to the view. Tony Robinson says he will miss the tranquillity of the property, as much as its fascinating architecture.

Still on the market - interest above $7 million.