After procuring their dream waterfront section 41 years ago, owners Phil and Marilyn went on to build the spacious and luxurious cedar residence themselves.
“We caravaned on-site for four months over winter with our eight and six-year-old – it was a busy time. My husband was working and I was on the paintbrush seven days a week to get everything undercoated and stained before we built,” says Marilyn.
The 1256sqm section is located in a private and peaceful Lynfield pocket and showcases absolutely magnificent, panoramic views of the Manukau Harbour.
“It’s so restful watching the tides, the weather changing and the beautiful sunsets. We also watch planes coming in and out overhead,” Marilyn says.
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The couple wanted to maximise these vistas as much as possible, and the fact that Phil had a joinery business meant that he was able to handcraft some seriously impressive features for the time.
“He made all the doors and windows at night after work, including the large round aluminium window and bifold doors. He even double glazed some of the glass, which was unheard of at the time.”
Inside, the timeless, high-quality design is rich with feature brickwork and timber accents – heart rimu ceilings and wall panelling and Douglas Fir parquet flooring. The layout is super family-friendly and spread over three generous levels, with excellent separation and different zones to relax and entertain in.
Key living and dining areas are located on entry level, where the separate formal dining and lounge enjoys views from the aforementioned feature porthole. The open-plan family area and kitchen is the hub of the home and flows out to a choice of outdoor living spaces perfect for summer living and hosting friends.
Barfoot & Thompson agent Kevin He says: “To get this kind of sea view you usually need to go to the Coromandel – photos do not do it justice.”
The 1256sqm section is located in a private and peaceful Lynfield pocket and showcases absolutely magnificent, panoramic views of the Manukau Harbour.
These include the private patio and spa pool area and generous decks, which Marilyn and Phil also built.
“It took us some time to carry every piece of timber down from the front of the house to the back of the house,” she laughs.
“Then when we were building the decks, the pieces of timber were so heavy for the two of us that we had to use a rope to help hoist them up.”
All accommodation is located on the upper level. The master has its own ensuite, walk-in robe and private balcony, while the three remaining bedrooms are serviced by two well-appointed bathrooms.
Downstairs offers a handy rumpus space – which works well as a man cave, games room or teenage hangout. The double garage has a mezzanine work area and is complemented with plenty of off-street parking, with enough space for visitor vehicles, a caravan or boat.
Marilyn says they have absolutely loved the tranquillity and natural beauty of the setting.
The four-bedroom, three-bathroom residence has a timeless, high-quality design rich with feature brickwork and timber accents and spread over three levels.
The open-plan family area and kitchen is the hub of the home and flows out to a choice of outdoor living spaces perfect for summer living.
“It’s very, very peaceful. Even though you’re in the middle of Auckland, you never feel that way. The birdlife is wonderful – we have a pheasant coming to visit us at the moment. He comes out from the reserve to see if there’s anything to eat, then disappears.”
The property is tucked down a right of way on one of the area’s most sought-after streets. It’s situated just moments away from all amenities and public transport, as well as the Maungakiekie Golf Course and Lynfield Tennis Club.
Phil and Marilyn are now sadly downsizing, which means another lucky family will be able to enjoy the view and all their hard work.
Kevin He, from Barfoot & Thompson, who is marketing the property with Gail Beaton, says that this is an incredibly unique property, thanks to the fact the couple undertook all the craftsmanship themselves, as well as the truly outstanding views.
“To get this kind of sea view you usually need to go to the Coromandel – photos do not do it justice.”
- 27 Himalaya Crescent, Lynfield, Auckland, goes to auction on November 27
