You’ve heard of love at first sight, but what about love before sight? That’s what happened to Heidi and Julien in 2008 when they discovered what was to become their family home for almost two decades.
“I’d had a dream that I’d find an amazing do-up by the sea,” Heidi recalls.
“One day I opened the paper and there it was. I just knew it was meant to be ours. The day we drove up and saw the front garden and the trees, there was no looking back.”
Originally built in the 1890s, 15 Percival Parade in Saint Marys Bay, Auckland, was largely untouched, complete with the original laundry and the remnants of a workshop, when Heidi and Julien bought it.
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Their plan was to transform the existing two-bedroom cottage into a large, family home that respected the history and character of the home while fully integrating modern living into it.
The result is a beautiful five-bedroom, four-bathroom home with a 2021 CV of $4.1 million that effortlessly blends old and new. The property is on the market for sale by auction on July 3.
High ceilings, original windows and fireplaces and paneled walls are coupled with double glazing, central heating and a designer kitchen to create a warm, modern, functional family home.
High ceilings, original windows and fireplaces are coupled with double glazing, central heating and a designer kitchen to create a warm, modern, functional family home.
The owners bought the neighbouring laneway in 2014 and built a versatile workshop space and double carport which opens onto Shelley Beach Road.
Downstairs, multiple living areas open to beautifully manicured outdoor spaces including a solar pool (which can also run off gas) and spa, while two versatile bedrooms offer plenty of space for extended family, an au pair, or a home office. Upstairs, the master suite plus two more bedrooms and a family bathroom provide plenty of room for the whole family.
In 2014, Heidi and Julien purchased the neighbouring laneway which was originally the driveway to the house over the road. Here they built a versatile workshop space and double carport which opens onto Shelley Beach Road, and created a secret garden – complete with bees.
“Most properties in Ponsonby, St Heliers and Herne Bay are tiny so it’s wonderful to have so much space here,” says Julien.
“Having a secret garden was a haven for the kids and dogs. We brought in beehives and the bees absolutely transformed that space. It exploded in life and colour. It’s really quite wonderful out there.”
In 2019, they installed the pool and spa which the kids have spent every summer in since.
The owners transformed the existing two-bedroom cottage into a large, five-bedroom family home.
The pool and spa was installed in 2019 and became a favourite summer spot for the children.
“It’s like the house has evolved with us as the kids have grown up,” says Heidi.
Ray White agent Angela Saunders says 15 Percival Parade is a premium address in an unbeatable location.
“Nestled by Waitematā Harbour, Saint Marys Bay residents enjoy a serene green character setting and easy access to Auckland’s CBD for work and entertainment,” she says. “With prestigious schools, boutique shopping, and renowned dining, it makes for an ideal blend of urban convenience and serene living.”
For Heidi and Julien, it’s been a tough decision to move on, but one that’s right for their family.
“It’s hard to say goodbye to a home that we’ve poured so much emotional time and energy into. We have a lot of fond memories tied to this home. But we’re ready for whatever the future holds.”
- 15 Percival Parade in Saint Marys Bay goes to auction on July 3
