A sweet escape

Close to Auckland, yet far enough out to feel like a retreat, this two-storey home beckons. Private, sunny and with easy, open-plan living, this beauty is brimming with traditional charm and modern twists. The rendered brick exterior is chic in charcoal with contrasting white trim. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the surrounding lawns bringing the outside in. The northfacing open-plan area enjoys all-day sun and is a convivial place for socialising and everyday living. LED lights set the mood after sundown. The airy kitchen, dining and living area spills onto an L-shaped alfresco entertaining area. A louvred roof provides weather protection. Inside, the second lounge is a cosy hideaway on winter nights. The kitchen’s large scullery frees the bench from clutter. The upper storey features three large bedrooms, a spacious family bathroom and a study or fourth bedroom. Sound insulation keeps things quiet. The master bedroom includes a large walk-in wardrobe and fully tiled ensuite. The honeycomb-style feature wall in the glass shower is the bee’s knees.