After living in London and facing long commutes for work, Carol and Aynsley Scott wanted to live centrally and close to their jobs when they settled in Auckland.
South African-born Carol says she and Aynsley, who grew up in Christchurch, didn't know much about Auckland but liked the arty community vibe of Grey Lynn.
After living in Larchwood Ave in Westmere, they bought this square front villa 11 years ago and lived here for seven years before extending and renovating.
"The house had some renovations done to it but we wanted the extra living space and a swimming pool," says Carol.
Excavating at the rear allowed them to create an open plan living space with a high stud that opens on the same level to their east-facing deck with steps down to the lawn and swimming pool.
"We wanted a seamless transition from the living area out to the pool," says Carol. "We had an architectural designer help us with it because essentially we knew what we wanted to do."
A wall of glass featuring two massive timber-framed glass sliders frames views back to the city, including the Skytower.
This view can be seen as you come in the front door and walk down the hallway before stepping down to the living space.
The bedrooms of daughters Alexandra and Siena got built-in storage, and the second lounge off the hallway has a concealed fold-down bed for guests.
"We wanted to add a guest room but site coverage restrictions made that difficult," says Carol. "This way when my parents come over from South Africa they've got their own room and a proper bed to sleep in."
Ducted heating warms the home and there is a gas fire in the main living space.
