Remuera: European affair

Distinctly European, this striking home nestled on the northern slopes of Remuera offers a touch of the Mediterranean. By CHARLOTTE COSSAR.

A backdrop of mature trees beautifully offsets the strong lines of this European-inspired home set proudly on the ridge looking across the Remuera valley.

The property, which is secure behind electronic gates at the end of a peaceful right-of-way, is imposing and impressive from the first glimpse of its solid presence.

A natural palette of materials and colours sets the home apart from its neighbours and invites visitors to venture up the sweeping pebble driveway to the inviting entrance.

Marking the entry to the home are double wooden-panelled doors. A slight departure from the European flavour, the awe-inspiring doors originated in Thailand. Subtly mixing cultures, their texture and solidity hint at what is about to unfold inside.

Immediately your eye is drawn in all directions - up the slightly curving stairwell and upward to a divine candelabra-style light to the vast terrazzo entrance adequately proportioned for displaying simple but significant artworks.

An enveloping space, it is the perfect reception area for greeting guests and ushering them to the left and down to the living areas. The stone flooring gives way to floorboards, subtly changing the mood to a more relaxed atmosphere. The formal living is divided into two areas - the lounge and dining. The dining room, which is defined by a gracious archway, is an enviable space offering a private and intimate area in which to enjoy long drawn-out evenings full of sensational wines and tasty offerings.

Delicate lighting highlights artwork and tall rectangular windows let a little of the outside world in.

Across an open walkway, the living area gleams in comparison. A fireplace warms the area in winter and the sublime plantings and terrace outside cool the room in summer. Bifold doors open to a loggia, which has an automated louvre roof. Extending the living area year round, this private terrace leads to the rest of the landscaped courtyard. A mix of natives and subtropical plantings are a refreshing reprieve from the gleaming tiles, pebbles and concrete wall enclosing the generous outdoor living space.

Back inside, through numerous sets of bifold doors, is more living space. Stepped down from the formal living are the welcoming family areas, designed for an easy lifestyle and a sense of wellbeing. The large space is drawn together by the modish, yet traditional-style, kitchen. Separated by a large island bench, housing the sink and integrated dishwasher, the kitchen seamlessly blends with the other textures used throughout the house. Flamed-finished metallic cabinetry is a natural progression from the floorboards and white walls. Hiding the appliances, floor-to-ceiling cabinetry offer ample space to maintain the clean lines and clutter-free environment. A plunge pool right outside the double doors cools the area completely and provides a sense of calm.

Before heading up the generous staircase, a bedroom and guest bathroom complete the lower level.

At the landing of the second level, a large office alcove with custom-built cupboards and a desk centralise the private domain of the home. From here three bedrooms and a family bathroom are accessible. The two double bedrooms have the same custom-built cabinetry, with one of the beds being able to be made into a double.

The bathrooms are a delightful surprise. Sage green mosaic tiles line the walls, glass vanity tops are graced by shallow circular basins and contemporary tapware and towel rails combine to deliver crisp spaces that are both functional and inviting. The family bathroom also features a Roman-style bath.

Occupying one side of the second floor is the master suite. A haven of luxury and indulgence, the area would be hard to leave. The bed is positioned along an internal wall and looks out to one of the decks. Cleverly concealed behind and down a small hallway are the generous walk-in wardrobe and en suite.

Similar to the other two bathrooms, this environment has an additional feature - a walk-through shower complete with numerous massaging nozzles.

Back in the bedroom, which is air conditioned, double doors open to a voluminous private terrace. Stepping up, to afford sweeping views across the valley, the outdoor living area is the perfect place to escape to and enjoy the city lights and soft breezes.

The ornate detailing on the exterior and continuity of textures and materials throughout make this home a serene haven transporting owners to another world.

Vital Statistics

ADDRESS: 32A Ridings Rd, Remuera.

FEATURES: European-inspired home with spectacular views across the valley; four bedrooms; three mosaic-tiled bathrooms; European fixtures and fittings; formal and informal living opening to terrace and pebbled courtyard; underfloor heating; loggia roof has motorised louvres; plunge pool; two private terraces off master bedroom; walk-in wardrobe; office alcove; terrazzo entrance; blonded wood floors; integrated appliances behind flamed-finished metallic cabinetry; custom-built shelving and bed units; internal-access double garage; outdoor fireplace.

SIZE: Land area 900sq m.

TENDER CLOSES: October 29, at 4pm.

AGENTS: Peter and Lisa Cleave, Unlimited Potential, Remuera. Ph 529 1478 bus; 529 1509 ah; Peter 021 756 246 mob; Lisa 021 756 245 mob.