Buying one of these Richard Priest-designed Freemans Bay apartments off the plans meant Wendy Sibun had the advantage of customising the layout of her three-level unit.
"That would be 15 or 16 years ago, and it meant I could make my own changes -- I added a bath to the bathroom and I changed the layout so the living area is on the top level rather than on the middle level."
Wendy has one of the largest apartments in the distinctive black wood and Zincalume building.
"Being only one of nine apartments, it's so quiet, not a lot of foot traffic or cars. And we have off-street parking, which is a big thing in this area."
Other pluses are being close to the city, Victoria Park and "the best supermarket in town -- the New World in Vicky Park." She could easily walk to the CBD's art gallery, shops, movies or the other way to Ponsonby Rd. "And I have Queenies cafe on the corner -- that's lovely, that one."
Her views to the northwest include Ponsonby's villas. "I get the early morning sun in the kitchen and dining and then it comes around about 2pm into the living areas and bedrooms, and I get the sunset."
The floor layout has entry from either the front door or internally from the garage, and there's a bedroom (which can be used as a study) on the ground floor too. Stairs lead to the two bedrooms and bathroom on the middle level, and the top level has the open-plan living, including stainless-steel benched kitchen and dining, and sliding glass doors opening to the deck where there is enough room for table, chairs and barbecue. Jarrah floors feature in the stairway and living area, with carpet in the bedrooms and tiles in the bathroom.
Wendy lived here five years, later renting the apartment out. She hasn't had a day when it hasn't been occupied, currently collecting $600 a week.
But now her apartment is being sold, as well as her business and beach house, so she can go travelling. "I am at that age."
The apartment is being marketed at owner-occupiers who will appreciate its handy position. With the development of Britomart and Wynyard Quarter, the location will appeal to people who enjoy living and socialising in the inner city.