Country: A woodwork of art in Kumeu

By CEDRIC GRAY.

It was only natural when John van Erp decided to develop his 4ha property in Annadale Rd, Kumeu, that he would make a strong statement in timber.

First he planted a number of specimen trees to add colour to the building site. Several woodlots, including pinus radiata, kauri, rimu and several exotic species, followed, and the elegant 200 sq m home just had to have exposed timber as a special feature.

John, who owns West Auckland-based Continental Stairs and Joinery Ltd, admits to having a love of timber in its many and varied forms. His hand-crafted rimu spiral staircase leading to the first floor of the home could be classified as a work of art.

This is a quality home on a quality property. Built by John about 13 years ago, it nestles in a beautifully relaxed environment among trees and terraced gardens.

The modern kitchen and family dining area overlooks a swimming pool, the beauty of which is enhanced by a "pool house", complete with a kitchenette, a lounge, a bathroom and a double bedroom on the mezzanine floor. The mezzanine level is linked by a timber spiral staircase.

The douglas fir ceilings, which are virtually throughout the house, and the imported polished particle board floor in the kitchen and living room are features of the interior. There are two bedrooms upstairs, including the master bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe and an office. This area is served by a central bathroom.

The large family lounge with lovely rural views through the garden windows, a third bedroom and a bathroom complete the ground floor. The impressive wrap-around covered veranda is ideal for outdoor dining and entertaining.

Garaging for up to five cars, a laundry with a drying room, and a workshop are housed in a separate, well-constructed, 370 sq m building, which has kitchen and bathroom facilities.

There are nine paddocks in excellent pasture, which are suitable for light grazing. The paddocks are sheltered by the specimen trees and woodlots, and water for stock is provided by a small stream on the property.

Tenders for the property close with LJ Hooker, Kumeu, on Wednesday, December 19. Phone Ron Gussey on 412 8876 for further details.