Paul's career as a pilot saw him and Felicite living overseas in the early 90s. During an Auckland visit they popped into number 49's open home seeking inspiration for shutters for a rental property. But the property charmed them and they bought it, initially renting it out. Paul says, "We thought it would be a fantastic location to live in, right in the hub of Auckland."
The property is an easy 400m from the Remuera shops, with a front fence for privacy and off-street parking bolstering the internal-access double garage. Entry rewards visitors with a perspective through the main living room, hinting at the home's good northerly views around Orakei and Hobson Bay. The living room has picturesque chandeliers and a marble-surround open fireplace. Panelled-glass doors either side open to the neighbouring formal dining room and a covered terrace.
The couple agree the sunroom/TV room off the living room is their favourite spot. It is ideal for reading and is bathed in sunshine, which comes streaming through sash windows. The kitchen, living room, sunroom, master suite and one other bedroom face north.
The pair have hosted some rollicking dinner parties, aided not by a butler but by a substantial butler's scullery. This scullery room and the separate kitchen have original cabinetry and the northern end of the kitchen has been opened up with bifold windows. Nearby is what would have been the butler's quarters. Just outside the back door is an attached laundry and the original meat-safe, now converted into a dog-door for beloved dog, Nicki.
The master bedroom with en suite is a sunny haven at the eastern end of the hall, rich with storage, thanks to a modern wardrobe system behind triple doors.
The third and fourth bedrooms have original timber built-in wardrobes, with one hosting a charming timber nook to apply make-up in. Original turquoise tiles line the main bathroom and separate toilet.
A cloak-room offers potential for internal stairs should the basement be developed. The lower level houses a room used as a hair salon and two small under-house storage rooms. You can imagine children spilling out from a redeveloped lower level to the big lawn, which has ample space for a pool.
The couple agree it's time for them to move as they no longer need this much space.
