KEY POINTS:
When they wanted to update their home, a family didn't have far to look for help.
24B Brighton Road, Parnell.
Having your architect living next door is handy when you're renovating -but it's even better when that architect was the original brain behind your home's design.
This was the case for Cheryl and Martyn Dawson, who bought their Parnell property in January. Their neighbour, architect Kerry Avery, was able to help with the extensive overhaul to the 1992 house.
As well as a new wraparound deck for the main living area, the house has been transformed with a new kitchen and bathrooms, new paint, flooring, light fittings and an updated fireplace.
The integrity of the original architecture has been maintained while being freshened up.
Set down a long, private driveway on the slope that looks out to Hobson Bay, the Dawsons' home is set on three main levels, which all capture the sun. The top floor contains the bedroom of youngest son Alex, 13, a sitting room, a cosy office, and the master suite.
Its en suite bathroom sports a flash new spa bath that is positioned to take in the spectacular view of the harbour and mature trees on the hillside.
Steps down from the front door lead to the main living and dining area, as well as the kitchen. The kitchen's smart white cabinetry looks crisp with a Stonex benchtop and Fisher and Paykel DishDrawers.
The wooden floor in the living space is something of a first.
``Apparently we were one of the first homes to get wide-slat bamboo flooring,'' Cheryl says.
Although the bamboo looks like ordinary timber flooring, it can be re-sanded and recoloured easily. It's also pretty much impervious to damage from stiletto heels.
Even though the layout of the house means everyone can have their own space, the main living room is where the family spends the most time together.
``It's great. Because the food's here, the boys tend to congregate and we get to talk to each other,'' Cheryl laughs.
Downstairs, there are further bedrooms for Nick, 16, and James, 19, who now lives in Nebraska playing baseball. This part of the house is perfect for teenagers.
It has its own kitchen, study and storage area, as well as another living space that is currently used as a gym. Just like their older brother, Nick and Alex are baseball-mad.
They can often be found practising on the tennis court the property shares with its neighbours the Avery family.
Cheryl loves the feel of the house. She'll be sad to see it go, but a work transfer means the family is moving to Christchurch.
VITAL STATISTICS
BEDROOMS: 4
BATHROOMS: 3
GARAGES: 2+
SIZE: Land, share of 1841sq m, house 301sq m.
PRICE: $1.85 million negotiable.
INSPECT: Sat/Sun 12-12.45pm, Wed 6-6.30pm.
ON THE WEB: www.barfoot.co.nz # 351132
SCHOOL ZONES: Parnell District School, Auckland Grammar, Epsom Girls Grammar. Close to many private schools.
CONTACT: John and Kathleen Shaw, Barfoot & Thompson, ph 524 0149 bus, John 021 439778, Kathleen 021 455808.
FEATURES: Three-level recently refurbished house designed by Kerry Avery, who lives next door. Three living areas, including one in what could be a self-contained flat. Feature gas fireplace. Share of AstroTurf tennis court.
