SCHOOL ZONES:
Richmond Road Primary, Ponsonby Intermediate, Auckland Girls’ Grammar, Western Springs College.
CONTACT:
Matt Johnson, 027 243 6831, Chloe Wither, 021 672 191, Ray White.
Mitchell Jefferson loved the idea of the new boutique apartments in Ponsonby he is involved in developing so much he bought one.
The development manager for Legacy Property, which is building 43 Brown St, says there is a timelessness to the design, and the location -- just a few steps to Ponsonby Central -- is superb.
For those with families another bonus is Richmond Road Primary School down the road.
Mitchell says Legacy Property bought the development off architect Conway Brooks and engineer Dave Shilton, who have stayed on and their continued involvement has made for a good mix for the project to go ahead.
"It's kind of timeless in a way. You know, you can imagine in 10 years' time it not being very dated because it's such a unique style."
The two basement levels provide parking and the four levels above contain the apartments, all of which feature a deck roomy enough for a barbecue and table and chairs.
A small commercial space at the front of Brown St is also for sale.
The location, however, is most appealing.
Image 1 of 6: Boutique development comprises just 14 stylish apartments, each offering a spacious deck and car parking.
"You know, there aren't many opportunities within the core of Ponsonby to actually develop apartment buildings, because it's strongly an historical area. People want to be stumbling distance to the bars and the culture of Ponsonby.
"I think that's the number one thing, where it's located. And being around residential at the same time, it doesn't feel like you're in a commercial area, which is great.
"And then just the style and scale of the building, 14 units and kind of having this quirky, industrial, natural sort of style.
"It's a bit different and unique."
A range of one -- which are all sold -- two- and three-bedroom apartments make up the mix and are designed to suit a range of people, from families, to young people, to empty nesters who are downsizing and freeing up capital to perhaps buy a bach but still retain a modern city pad.
The interiors are high spec with tiled bathrooms and underfloor heating, polished concrete floors, oak flooring at the entry, and energy-efficient features.
Some apartments have built-in study spaces and the kitchens feature brushed stainless steel benchtops with wooden joinery.
The fact car parking is included is fantastic, Mitchell says.
"Ponsonby has quite a car-parking problem now. You can see the extent people go to with their villas just to get car parks -- you know, people lift them up and put basements under their villas and things to put a garage in."
But would he live in one of the apartments? Mitchell says, yes -- he has already bought one.
"I just think it's a rare opportunity, so it's a special opportunity."
