Remuera: Lavish lifestyle

CHARLOTTE COSSAR visits an exquisite Remuera residence where the finer things in life have been given priority.

They are voluminous, grand and designed for discerning buyers wanting quality living and an exemplary home that doesn't skimp on finer finishes.

Dubbed the "super homes" of this century, these luxurious pads, often in the heart of Remuera, have it all - exquisite European fittings and fixtures, generous lap pools, large loggias often with outside fireplaces, triple-car garaging and vast living spaces.

This home at 145 Victoria Ave is no exception. The home, privatised down a right-of-way through electronic gates, is a Patterson-designed dwelling that offers exceptional living spaces, which are clearly defined into private and public domains.

An entertainer's haven, the double front door opens to reveal rich and luscious floorboards leading guests into the double-height entrance. Not a door or hallway in sight, the home skilfully unfolds, flowing through the formal living area to the casual family spaces without interruption.

Heady stud heights and neutral hues enhance the spaciousness of the home, while a sense of comfort is afforded through the four gas fireplaces littered throughout. An elegant blend of traditional and clean, contemporary looks is achieved effortlessly through a melding of warm, sensual textures, and not detracting from the furnishings, the shell of the home is a perfect backdrop for any decor style, and works well with a mix of old and new.

The formal and informal living areas can be privatised by double doors, and while you are always aware of what is happening in both areas, this sense of intimacy doesn't inhibit the open layout.

Paramount to these rooms, the kitchen is sleek and aesthetically pleasing. Featuring top-of-the-line appliances and fittings imported from Europe, a capacious scullery and laundry area is a fantastic service space leading to the internal access of the triple-car garaging. A great place to clear the home of clutter, it also features a second dishwasher, large sink and loads of storage.

Family living adjoins the kitchen, which is hidden from view yet side by side with the dining room, and opens to a generous loggia perfect for year-round alfresco dining, thanks to a double-sided fireplace. And this movement between the indoors and outdoors is always apparent.

Soothing hues continue in the bedrooms, which are generously proportioned and separated over two levels. The master suite and two more bedrooms feature on the upper level, while children can play away from adults in a lounge area, on the middle level beside the fourth bedroom. Also a great guest wing, this separate area features a separate toilet and bathroom and plenty of storage.

Facing north, with views across the valley to Rangitoto, the master bedroom treats owners to a cosy ambience provided by a gas fireplace. A dressing room opens to a bathroom with a juliette balcony.

Outside, the architecture has been softened and enhanced by an award-winning landscape designer who has devised an exquisite formal garden focused around the pool. Not excluded from the inside, delightful garden views can be enjoyed from many vantage points in the living areas.

Another example of how luxurious living can be achieved, this home boasts the best of the best.

Vital Statistics

ADDRESS: 145 Victoria Ave, Remuera.

FEATURES: Architecturally designed five-bedroom (four bedrooms plus study) home; multiple living areas opening to terrace and garden; Poggenpohl kitchen, scullery and laundry; triple-car garaging; underfloor heating in bathrooms; two dishwashers; GE fridge-freezer; Miele coffee machine; central vacuum; four gas fireplaces; home automation security system; copper roof; European sisal carpet.

SIZE: Land area 828sq m; floor area 450sq m.

AUCTION: 1pm, August 18, on site.

AGENTS: Sue Ryan and Paula Stringfield, Unlimited Potential, Remuera. Ph Sue 021 923 723 mob; Paula 021 764 441 mob.