SCHOOL ZONES:
Westmere Primary, Ponsonby Intermediate, Western Springs College.
CONTACT:
Felicity Scott, 0274 522241.
* 2 OSP
In a remarkable renovation and rejuvenation, builder David Ockleston has showcased his many design and construction skills with the classic 1924 Westmere bungalow that he and his wife Stephanie bought around 20 years ago -- and have lived in ever since, along with daughters Tess, now 21, and Chloe, 19.
Over that time the house has been completely transformed, while retaining its intrinsic character, and every change has been carefully thought through by the pair, who are both self-confessed perfectionists.
"Because we had small children when we moved in, one of our first projects was to build a stone wall at the front of the property and put in a swimming pool," says Stephanie.
Next, they rejigged the kitchen, living, and dining area completely and added french doors facing the pool, which had already proved a huge hit with the girls and their neighbourhood friends.
This bright, open airy space is without doubt the hub of the home and David has included some interesting and innovative features, such as cupboard doors that can be pulled across to hide the bench.
Also on this level is the guest bedroom, the two girls' bedrooms and an enormous bathroom -- formerly a bedroom, too.
"We could have made the bathroom smaller and used the extra space in other ways but I'm really glad that we didn't," says Stephanie.
"It's my ultimate treat, soaking in the claw foot bath and enjoying the feeling of space and tranquillity."
Image 1 of 8: Bungalow has been restored and reinvented. Photos / Ted Baghurst
A second, very generous living area with a dramatic vaulted ceiling is in the extension at the back of the house and a separate laundry alongside it completes the picture down here. Above is the second storey master suite, added on by David. It's also very spacious with an en suite and walk-in wardrobe. There's access to the attic, which boasts heaps of handy storage space, too.
Outside, at the rear of the back garden, a hot tub is neatly tucked in under a giant palm tree and the recently completed landscaping is striking, yet easy-care.
An added bonus is the self-contained studio, a nifty little space with a semi kitchenette and compact bathroom. It has its own access.
Stephanie says that a young nephew lived very happily here while studying in Auckland. There was room for his bed and his drum kit.
Livingstone St is full of families and everybody knows each other.
"It's the way that a true kiwi neighbourhood should be," says Stephanie.
She works as a teacher aide at nearby Westmere School, which Tess and Chloe both attended.
"It's an easy walk to work -- and to practically everything else, too."
West Lynn's quirky stores are just around the corner, there's a large supermarket nearby and even Ponsonby with its shops, bars, cafes and other attractions is just a short hop.
The nearby park is great for dog-walking and all of this comes with a whiff of a sea breeze.
