Live life in slow lane in winning retreat

2/35 KINGSVIEW RD MOUNT EDEN

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SIZE: Land 500sq m, House 174sq m.

PRICE INDICATION: CV 1.66 Million

INSPECT: Sat & Sun 2-2:30 (or by appointment)

ON THE WEB: steennielsen.raywhite.co.nz/1320102

SCHOOL ZONES: Auckland Boys' Grammar, Epsom Girls' Grammar, Maungawhau Primary and Auckland Normal Intermediate.

CONTACT: Steen Nielsen, Ray White, 027 557 8336

Mark Heimgartner hadn't planned to stay on the site he was developing in this quiet Mt Eden street, but during construction he found himself liking it enough to keep and so he adapted the design to include many extra features.

"Although it's set back from the street, it still has road presence," says Mark. It's true. The house is handsome and the lush subtropical garden enhances its appeal.

The open plan living, dining and kitchen area is spacious and sunny with a high ceiling not often found in modern houses.

Heat pumps and a heat transfer system along with insulation mean the house is consistently warm and comfortable, and double glazing is an added bonus.

"I'm not a particularly keen cook," says Mark, "But I made sure that the kitchen was well equipped."

A bright green splashback catches the eye while the rest of the decor is classically neutral, with lots of storage space.

The house has four double bedrooms, one of which Mark uses as a home office. The master bedroom has an en suite and walk-in wardrobe and the main bathroom is smart and well-appointed.

The Super Sedan racing car driver has a teenage daughter and his son, Andre, is following in his footsteps, having already won a number of prestigious races here and overseas.

Mark also has two younger daughters who come and stay with him for a couple of days each week.

Their favourite spot is the spa pool outside, with its attractive ponga log surround and speakers delivering relaxing music.

"I really like it, too, and it's utterly private," says Mark. "When I want to get away from work I simply hop in the pool and soak my worries away."

Although there isn't a huge amount of garden space, Mark used clever landscapers who have made the outdoor space feel like a collection of outdoor rooms, each with its own personality.

"The lawn only takes two minutes to mow, so it's certainly not high maintenance," he says.

The house is just a stroll away from the bustling heart of Mount Eden village with its myriad shops and cafes. "When my younger two are with me, we all like to climb to the top of Mount Eden and let off some steam."

Public transport to and from the CBD is close by and Newmarket is just a few minutes' drive.

Because of his and Andre's involvement with racing, Mark needs more office and work space so he has bought a section in Remuera to build another house. It goes without saying that the new house will include the many features he's enjoyed in Mt Eden.

"I actually run a racing team so I need somewhere to store all the gear that comes with it," says Mark.

"This is a very well built Harmony home. It's compact, well maintained and overall, just a lovely house to live in.

"I'm just hoping I don't move out, then ask myself if I've done the right thing."