A home with “hex appeal” that’s next to Auckland Hospital has hit the market and is already attracting interest from downsizers and doctors.
The one-bedroom unit at 5B Boyle Crescent, in Grafton, is part of The Turrets complex, a 1970s housing development of 12 interlocking white concrete hexagonal blocks.
The vendor, who worked at Auckland Hospital, bought it in 2015 for $568,000 and is taking it to auction on October 16.
Ray White listing agent Tim Hawes described the home as having an “edgy vibe” and highlighted the modern interiors.
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“It’s a cute little housing area close to the university, medical school and hospital.”
Since the listing went live at the end of last month, he has received enquiries from staff at Auckland Hospital and the University of Auckland’s medical faculty.
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The CV is $740,000 but Hawes was unwilling to say where the price would land at auction. “Honestly, they’re so unique. There have been other sales in the complex, but how relevant they are now is hard to say as the market has moved,” he told OneRoof, referring to the $720,000 another one-bedroom unit fetched in June 2021 at the height of the market.
The Turrets development is the work of architect Graham B Murray, whose out-there designs include the now defunct Sak’s store in Newmarket and a quirky family home on Pukeora Avenue, in Remuera.
Like The Turrets, the Pukeora Ave home was innovative for its time. It was designed with pitched and flat roofs, slot windows, courtyards, and huge glass sliding doors.
5B Boyle Crescent has a similar feel to other iconic buildings of the era, built by Ian Burrows and Roger Walker, and while Hawes has sold Walker-designed homes in Auckland, he has only come across structures like The Turrets in Wellington.
The interior is spacious and modern. Photo / Supplied
The unusual-looking complex was designed in the 1970s by architect Graham B Murray. Photo / Supplied
Despite their unusual shape, the complex was a hit with potential buyers. “It’s just a question of whether it works for them or not,” he said. “We’re seeing a bit of traffic from people looking to downsize from family homes, and some interest from young couples looking to get a start.
“I think the key thing around this one is, because it’s two levels and it’s one bedroom, it’s got quite a lot of room, so it’s deceptively well-sized for a one-bedroom unit, and certainly in terms of its alternatives, because if you’re looking at what you’re buying around there, it’s, generally speaking, apartments.”
He said its robust nature and the fact it was low maintenance were also appealing. “Is it the prettiest thing in the world? Maybe not. But things cycle through fashion and right now people are on board with it.”
He added that buyers were unlikely to see this type of home being built again. “So it’s definitely a buying opportunity.”
- 5B Boyle Crescent, in Grafton, Auckland, goes to auction on October 16
