Remuera: Going bush in Remmers

A large modern home tucked away in the bush offers space and privacy, writes Catherine Smith.

15B Shera Road, Remuera.

A bush hideaway is a rare find on the northern slopes of Remuera. And one that was built with all the details of the grand old homes of last century, but the comforts of this, is worth a second look.

"Remuera is handy to schools and my work, close to the motorway for Delila's Takapuna commute, but we also wanted a retreat from the bustle," says Rod Gabb.

"This house was big enough for a family to spread out in, but tucked away in the bush for complete privacy and a real retreat."

When they bought the house new four years ago, Rod's wife Delila, a cosmetic dentist, applied her artistic eye to the finishes and decor of a previously neutral interior.

In came luxurious curtains and drapes in the reception rooms and bedrooms, finished with swags, fringing and fine touches. Rich taupe paint colours complement the couple's collection of fine wood furniture, mirrors, books and paintings.

Landscaping the entire 867sq m property has given Rod and Delila the chance to create intimate courtyards and patios off living, dining and family rooms which catch the sun through various parts of the day.

A stream provides the continuous water soundtrack, while tui oblige with their song.

A sun-flooded upper terrace opens off the top floor master bedroom, while other bedrooms catch glimpses of bush or valley views.

The family had eyed the circular back lawn for a swimming pool and spa, but that can be the next owner's project.

Rod reckons the driveway and sweeping turnaround have accommodated up to 12 cars for parties, but clever use of brick and landscaping soften the effect of hard surfaces.

The couple have had plans drawn up to add triple garaging into the slope of the entryway, converting the existing double garage into a media room, and adding a recreation/games room.

But with five bedrooms and 322sq m of living, the house already has most bases covered.

A ground floor bedroom with en suite could easily take a nanny or guests, while upstairs four large double bedrooms spread themselves out to sun and valley views.

The focal point of the upper floor is the magnificent library, currently fitted with his and hers desks and library shelves. It is warmed by an open fire and open to the landing through double glass doors. Rod runs his business from here.

The ground floor reception rooms open off the double-height lobby, paved in pale limestone.

Double doors lead to the formal living and dining rooms and on to a casual family room and the heart of the home, the kitchen.

Here Delila prepares the Brazilian dishes of her homeland in a magnificent oak and granite kitchen, with integrated Smeg appliances. Rod teases that small family gatherings for Delila mean 100 or more people, but the house can handle it.

There is plenty of built-in storage, including a fully fitted utility room and cupboard-lined garage, which means that a large family could comfortably spread out in the house.

The call of Wellington life is too strong for Rod and Delilah, however. With their eldest daughter leaving home for Otago this year, the family will be down to three. They plan to downsize their Auckland home while Rod spends more time in the capital and Delilah runs her practice in Takapuna.

Vital Statistics

SIZE: Land 867sq m, house 322sq m

PRICE INDICATION: $1.3-1.5 million.

INSPECT: Saturday 11am-11.30am.

CONTACT: Steve Koerber, Barfoot & Thompson, ph 524 0149 bus or 021 864 166 mob.

FEATURES: Four-year-old house in private right of way, three reception rooms opening to courtyards, open plan gourmet kitchen, gas fireplaces, master suite with en suite plus four further double bedrooms (one with en suite), family bathroom, library/study with fireplace. Gardens feature bush and valley views. Double garage, internal access.