Clean and simple design makes the most of the sunshine

The house was in immaculate condition inside and out. Picture / Greg Bowker

The sleek lines of Megan Pausma's Remuera house caught her eye several years ago. She fell in love with its contemporary architecture when she was driving through the neighbourhood. "I used to pass it every day when I took my son to school and I thought that's the kind of house I want to live in one day."

She and her husband Rudy Pausma's house could not have been more different. The interior of the villa was dark while the Vladimir Cacala-designed home, built in 1963, has floor-to-ceiling windows and doors that allow natural light to flood in. Five years after Megan noticed the house, it came on the market and the couple grabbed the opportunity to buy it. They moved in 18 months ago with their children Christiaan, 15, and Claudine, 12, and family dog Roxie.

"We love its modern, clean lines, its huge glass sliding doors, and the fact that the house has been restored to near original. It's more than 40 years old yet it could have been built yesterday. The downstairs den leads out to the pool, and this is fantastic for teenage boys who love playing loud hip-hop."

How would you describe your home?

It's a two-storey cedarwood weatherboard home, with lots of glass and a hint of aluminium. The balustrades on the deck are also glass, and it has a flat tin roof which is a striking feature against the neighbouring pitched rooflines. The light pours in all day.

Have you made any changes?

Nothing needed our urgent attention - the house and gardens were immaculate when we shifted in. The essence of the house is quite simplistic so we have pared down some of its trappings. Drapes and venetian blinds have been removed to let in as much light as possible. Ultimately, we'd like to add another storey for views of Rangitoto. 

Do you have a favourite room?

I love the lounge, especially the way it flows to other rooms. Large bi-fold doors connect it with the dining space and the family living area, but it's also a very peaceful and relaxing room to be in.

Do you entertain at home much?

We enjoy people dropping in at any time. It's the kind of house that's ideal for entertaining. In summer we tend to have informal and relaxed gatherings with plenty of barbecues. During the winter the occasions tend to be a little more formal and organised and we use the dining room which is at the centre of our living area. The weekends usually involve teenagers coming and going, which can lead to busy mealtimes that are always a lot of fun.

Do you have a favourite piece of furniture?

The L-shaped sofa in the lounge. We had it made by Designer Collection a few years ago, it has served us well and is still looking fabulous. I love the silvery colour of the fabric.

What influences do you draw on when it comes to the look of your home?

We have no set plan when decorating. Inspiration can come from many things - a piece of furniture, a painting or even just a colour. We enjoy contemporary shapes and clean lines, however it is nice to mix old and new - the look is far more interesting and individual.

What's your favourite designer piece?

My Man Ray cups which were a birthday present for my 40th from a friend. And the Egg chair by Arne Jacobsen - but unfortunately we don't have one.

What's your most treasured possession?

Family photos and heirlooms. However, art pieces and paintings would run a pretty close second.

Do you have any pre-loved objects?

A mother-of-pearl china tea set of my Nan's springs immediately to mind. As a little girl it seemed the most beautiful thing I had ever seen and I was terrified to even touch it. I don't know what it's worth in money terms but it has a lot of value to my mother and I. We would be extremely upset if anything were to happen to it. Another favourite is an art deco sherry decanter that also belonged to my grandmother. I love the delicate glass and the bands of yellow and gold together.

Do you treat your garden like another room in the house?

Yes, there is a great indoor-outdoor flow. We spend a lot of time on the deck. The back garden is private and the copper water feature makes it quite peaceful. The afternoon sun streams in, so it's perfect for entertaining.