Architect Shaun Marlo has put a huge amount of thought and effort into 1 Vinegar Lane, situated right at the gateway to one of the biggest projects in Auckland at the moment: the regeneration of the former Soho Square and its surroundings.
A boutique development of just three penthouse apartments in a mixed-use building, 1 Vinegar Lane sets the standard for other complexes to come, with its sleek and stylish design.
Shaun and his business partner Wayne Schuler admit that they took some risks, all of which paid off, and they are very pleased with the finished product.
"We didn't want some bland 'me too' sort of result," says Shaun.
"All the new buildings here are going up fast and it won't be long before this is a busy little community with a real heart. We knew exactly what kind of people would want to move here and be a part of it."
The apartment that's on offer currently is a two-bedroom unit with some innovative design features.
A discreet entrance to the building opens into a classy hallway with high ceilings, state-of-the-art light fittings and a solid staircase leading to the floors above (there's an elevator too) and access to car parks. Even the letterboxes are seriously chic and there's a distinctly edgy vibe about it all.
Wayne says that all of the tradespeople who worked on the project relished having the opportunity to try new things and every tiny detail complements the all-over industrial feel of the building.
"Trinity Interiors did a great job for us, too," he adds.
The apartment itself is large -- at about 158sq m, with an 11.2sq m deck, which can be used year-round thanks to Shaun's discovery of a wind and rain-proof, washable fabric from Germany. This unusual material provides shade and privacy through the day -- and at night helps create a 'lantern' effect, as the building lights up and glows.
Image 1 of 7: Large apartment displays some very innovative design features and is on two levels, writes Louise Richardson
"You could describe it as working like an invisible skin," he says.
Unusually for apartments, this one is on two levels.
Shaun explains that he wanted to make distinct areas for living and sleeping.
Two generous bedrooms each have their own bathrooms with the luxury, hotel-standard master en suite located within the bedroom itself. The shower and toilet cubicle have doors while the freestanding bath can be screened off with an elegant curtain.
"It's a bit unusual," says Shaun. "But it really seems to work."
In addition, there's a well-arranged walk-in wardrobe and separate laundry, unusual in a house these days, let alone an apartment.
The living area is expansive and open-plan with front-to-back views. The property faces the ASB Community Trust's historic Allendale villa with its turrets and stained glass windows. This particular vista is like something from a fairy-tale, while at the other end the street below is always busy, with something going on, making people-watching a pleasure.
The kitchen is very well appointed with quality Bosch oven, induction hob and dishwasher. There's also a wine fridge and plenty of cupboard space.
At the main "living" end of this level is a cosy gas fireplace.
All three apartments have completely different interiors, using a diverse range of materials.
"They're bespoke," Shaun says.
"Nobody wants to have a home that's identical to the neighbour's."
With this once-neglected part of Ponsonby about to really burst into life, it's hard to imagine a more convenient place to live. Shops, restaurants and boutiques are right on the doorstep, the new supermarket is nearly completed and, as an added bonus, Roost cafe is situated in the corner of the building and perfect for morning coffee orders and snacks.
