It is exceptionally fitting that in 2018, Luke and Jenny McDonald were married in their home at 7 Clarks Lane, in Hobsonville, Auckland following a meticulous renovation of what was once the local church and schoolhouse. A building that now stands testament to their mutual commitment and creativity, this is truly a house of devotion.
The couple bought the property, which is to be auctioned on November 22, in 2014.
“It was a just a little mint green church building,” says Luke. Eighteen months of planning ensued to get the renovation right; detail which is evident in every inch of this extraordinary property. But importantly, Luke adds “We had so much fun doing it, we loved every minute,” and it shows.
A clever renovation, carefully retaining and restoring original features, Luke and Jenny have transformed this church into lifestyle home of boundless charm. From removing each of the 19 coats of old exterior paint, to painting the kitchen cabinetry, then sanding it delicately to achieve the imperfect aged look, every aspect has been considered.
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The renovation of the church was a massive undertaking but the results are stunning. Photo / Supplied
The home’s centre is a breathtaking living space, which on entering strikes you with its bold and established presence. High studs, original matai floors, rimu walls and ceilings, to the row of crosses overlooking the space from the mezzanine, affectionately named the ‘Choir box office,’ its heritage is palpable.
The kitchen blends seamlessly into the room, with integrated Smeg appliances and shaker style cabinetry, Luke and Jenny have added contemporary touches, without surrendering the building’s character. Upstairs, each of the two bedrooms come with an ensuite, walk in wardrobe and skylights. Through rimu French doors, the master opens onto a large north facing deck.
The garage is just one of the highlights. Photo / Supplied
The location is ideal. A brief walk over the bridge will take you to Hobsonville Point, a lively centre of restaurants, shops and bars. The area particularly appealed to Luke. “When we moved in, kids were playing cricket on the street, you just don’t get that anymore.” With 1998sqm and a vast lawn, there’s room for cricket and a great deal more.
It is clear, however, that Luke’s pride and joy is the expansive 6 plus car garage, where his car-building pastime has flourished. It goes without saying, the garage has been constructed with the same commitment and attention to detail applied to renovate the home. It is a source of great joy, but Luke quips that Jenny enjoys her ‘she shed’ with equal delight, describing it as her haven.
Harcourts agent, Kris Cunningham shares the enthusiasm.
“It’s a truly remarkable property, unlike anything I’ve seen before. The attention to detail and the craftsmanship is amazing, you know that when the owner has hand aged floorboards to match the original 100 year old matai boards, or hand painted the roofs of the sheds to look a little rusty, that they are truly passionate and a lot of love, heart and sweat has been poured into this project.”
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