It was one of those light-bulb moments. Greg Reidy was in the middle of negotiating a new lease for the top floor of a commercial building his development company owned when it dawned on him that it was wasted as office space.
"I looked at the beautiful timber beams and trusses and said, 'Why is this a commercial space? Why don't we convert it into apartments? I would live here in a heartbeat'."
Jut a couple of years later that building, now named Botanica Heritage, houses 13 stunning loft and warehouse-style apartments, and has proved so popular only three are still available to buy.
"We've had huge interest because it is so unique," says Greg. "You don't see many places around like this."
The building was part of the deal when his company, Residentiae, bought land in Mt Eden to construct the neighbouring Botanica development. It started life back in the 1930s as a warehouse for a timber company and was later used as offices by Carter Holt Harvey.
About 15 years ago the offices were upgraded and the plan was for it to continue as commercial space, until Greg had his epiphany.
Architects Peddle Thorp were brought on board to oversee the conversion of the three-level (plus basement parking) building into apartments and a ground-floor restaurant, Eden Bistro.
The high stud in the existing structure means all the apartments have high ceilings and great volume, giving a sense of spaciousness.
"Because we needed to fit the apartments into the existing structure they have ended up being larger than they would have otherwise," says Greg.
The architects have been careful to maintain the features that gave the building its industrial vibe and charisma, such as concrete walls, exposed brick and timber beams.
In the foyer, the marine ply walls with copper strapping have been kept, along with some "extremely cool" steel doors.
"What we've tried to do is retain as much of the character as we can while creating a modern environment that will be comfortable to live in," says Greg.
The three available warehouse apartments are on the first floor and have an air of edgy elegance. Materials such as stone, timber, concrete tiles and stainless steel have been used to enhance the existing charm.
One of the apartments has a large private outdoor balcony with a fireplace, while the other two have internal lanai-style balconies that can be opened or closed depending on the weather.
"They can be used as a balcony or as another room - you get the best of both worlds," says Greg.
The apartments are all completed and ready to move into. There is an option to buy the furniture used to dress the homes.
Greg says there has been an incredibly positive response to Botanica Heritage, not just because of the way the building has been transformed, but because of its location.
"It's fantastic - you are so close to so many great restaurants, cafes and shops and there are more going up all the time. And it is really good for transport."
Nearby interior design and homewares shops include The Bloc and Bo Concept and across the road is the recently refurbished Horse and Trap pub, which is very popular with locals.
Based in the area himself,Greg says he's noticed a "butterfly effect" in this part of Mt Eden, over the years, with work starting on one development after another. "There is so much refurbishment and construction going on, which is great for the area."
And he adds that if it wasn't for the fact that he's got three sons, he'd still be keen to live in one of the Botanica Heritage apartments himself. "I think it is going to be a really special place to live."
