Herald Homes of the year: Classic touches to a thoroughly modern makeover

Designed in 1952 by architect Bill Chick, the house was expensively detailed for its time. Photo / Supplied

Herald Homes editor Penny Lewis shares her favourite homes this year.

Originally featured on May 12, this Titirangi property remains a firm favourite for its 1950s design and comfortable decor.

Designed in 1952 by architect Bill Chick, the house was expensively detailed for its time. Perched on a flat, sunny site only minutes from Titirangi village, its triple section slopes down into the bush. The elongated boomerang shape and deep, flat eaves reflect Chick's Chicago origins.

The previous owner restored the house from the ground up - rewired, reroofed, strengthened and insulated. Sun pours in the wraparound windows of the double-height entry atrium, penetrating the upper-level living area. The American maple panelling has been restored but the pastel lino floor has gone.

Outside, the coloured patio pavers remain. Covered decks on two floors mean the view can be enjoyed in all weathers. Sliding doors the length of the living room open to a tiled sunroom that also opens to the outside.

An enormous Hinuera stone fireplace anchors the living room. Floral Axminster was replaced with soft olive carpet, but the original striated plywood panels and dimpled cornices remain with the 1950s built-ins that still look modern.

The kitchen is a mid-century time capsule, complete with chequerboard linoleum floor, Frigidaire cooker and marbled countertops. More vintage linoleum and pastel tiles adorn the large laundry, with a separate toilet accessible from the garden.

The master suite illustrates sensitive renovation combined with modern luxury. New maple panelling and built-in furniture echo the originals, while the white-tiled bathroom is homage to a more glamorous age. Sliding doors open to the covered deck and bush views.

Downstairs, the second bathroom also enjoys the glamour treatment with underfloor heating, plus an adjoining Magmed sauna.The four bedrooms retain a more vintage style, each sporting timber built-ins. A double bedroom opens to the north-facing terrace.

298 Konini Rd,
Titirangi

Four bedrooms, two bathrooms; double garage.
Size: Land 3341sq m
Price: Sold for $1.15 million.