Over the following year the couple's ideas began to take shape, largely due to architect Robyn Bilkey.
Owen admits to having had slight doubts at times. "My father is a builder and when he saw the plans he wondered if the architect knew what she was doing.
"I think it's because we have quite a number of levels, but, believe me, it works."
What emerged was a handsome cedar-clad home with cedar doors and durable aluminium joinery.
It assumed its place in the bush comfortably, just minutes from nearby beaches.
"It was great having a female designer because she knew exactly what another woman would want," smiles Betty-Anne.
Clothing company owner Owen agrees wholeheartedly.
"What she created was a very versatile shell which we were able to change easily as our children, Thomas and Hannah, came along and then eventually moved into their teens.
"When they were small the deck was a great space as it was completely safe for them and our house-trained rabbit.
"In fact, it's so big they could actually ride their bikes on it.
"When they got older -- about 12 years ago -- we completely redeveloped downstairs to give them a private, sound-proofed retreat.
"It's a big room, which we're using currently for the pool table and it has a bathroom. It's also plumbed and wired for a kitchenette."
The Rutters' home is incredibly private and it's hard to believe that shops and cafes are within easy walking distance.
Wood pigeons and tui sing and a brook babbles alongside the extensive outdoor living area.
With alterations complete, the now 280sq m house boasts four substantial bedrooms, although one could be used as an office, and there are two bathrooms (one with a spa bath), plus an en suite with double basins off the master bedroom -- which also has a walk-in wardrobe.
There's also a separate guest toilet.
The main living area, featuring handsome built-in solid oak furniture and an open fireplace, is spacious and houses a grand piano.
Betty-Anne is passionate about keeping clutter to an absolute minimum so in this room, as in all the others, discreet doors conceal the inner workings of the house; wine racks, drinks fridge, home office areas, entertainment equipment and crockery.
She's a keen cook and entertainer so her kitchen is incredibly well appointed.
There are two Miele ovens, gas hobs, a Bosch dishwasher, trash compactor (which she swears by), and stainless steel bench tops.
The couple's business is based around the yachting industry so, needless to say, there is space underneath the house for a boat -- plus two cars and there's also an equipment shed.
On the next level is a parking deck which accommodates another three cars.
There is underfloor gas heating throughout the house but as it is well-built and sound, it tends to stay warm throughout the year, meaning power bills are minimal.
As is so often the case, Betty-Anne and Owen are heading for something smaller now that their children have left home and while they are regretful in some ways, they really want a new family to enjoy the house they built with so much love.
