Developer and builder Cameron Ireland has a reputation for producing homes that seamlessly combine cutting-edge design elements with clever use of space and light. And that's what management consultant Esther Samuel noticed straight away when she first laid eyes on her sensational timber and tile Grey Lynn home, four years ago.
"I'd always lived in the Parnell and Remuera areas, but I was feeling adventurous and decided to look around Herne Bay and St Marys Bay. When I heard about this house I wasn't sure if it was quite where I wanted to be, but as it turned out, I didn't need convincing. In fact, I was sold at first sight," she says.
From the street, it's easy to see that this is no ordinary house. A cantilevered floor sits neatly above the ground level, with its double garage and striking entrance reached via stepping stones, neatly set within the lawn.
The ceilings are soaring and vast windows meld inside and out seamlessly. And the central staircase is an architectural wonder to behold.
No expense has been spared in the kitchen, with its marble benchtops and fully equipped scullery. Many of the appliances are integrated in order to achieve a streamlined effect, and keen cooks and entertainers will be delighted to see high-quality Gaggenau and Bosch appliances, a wine fridge, built-in coffee maker and more than ample storage space.
The kitchen segues into the family room, which in turn looks over the pool and the lush well-established garden with its palms, bromeliads and bright red coleus adding a spark of colour.
There are huge decked areas for relaxing and cooking up a storm on the barbecue and the section is private and secure.
She also appreciates its proximity to the CBD, where she has an office, and to Ponsonby with its shops and eateries.
"I'm really selling now, simply because it feels like to right time to do it," she says.
"This is a huge place for one person and I think it needs a family — there are good schools nearby and lots of nice parks — besides which I'm planning to do much more travelling."
37 DRYDEN ST, GREY LYNN • 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 parking spaces. • Land 532sq m, house 321sq m. • Sale price: CV: $3,375,000. Sale by negotiation. • Inspect: Sat/Sun noon to 12.40pm. • Schools: Grey Lynn School, Ponsonby Intermediate, Auckland Girls', Western Springs College. • Contact: Peter Cleave, Unlimited Potential, 021 756 246, uprealestate.co.nz/UPR14461
