This picturesque 1257sqm property’s surprising proportions and rich historical pedigree make it a true one-of-a-kind for its location.
“It’s a really unique house for Meadowbank – there are very few villas in our area,” explains Bridget, one of the owners. “That size house and that size land is really unusual for the suburb.”
In fact, 50 St Johns Road was the original homestead for the farm that now comprises much of the suburb of Meadowbank. The property is on the market for sale by auction on February 28. It has a current 2021 RV of $4.65 million and, according to OneRoof data, the property last changed hands in 2007 for $1.125m.
The house was constructed around 100 years ago and the farm was subdivided and developed in the 1950s and ‘60s. Its heritage has been celebrated over the years, with features like double hung sash windows, a magnificent central hallway, front veranda and 12ft ceilings beautifully retained throughout. The farm’s original stables have also been converted into what is now a self-contained pool house.
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Bridget and her husband purchased the property 15 years ago, following their return to live in New Zealand from Singapore. With three young children in tow, they saw it as a perfect long-term family home.
“Our children were four, six and seven at the time and we could see that it was the kind of house that would grow with us,” she says. “And it has.”
They have loved the convivial, busy atmosphere that the north-facing villa’s proportions, layout and outdoor living zones have allowed, plus how well it absorbs a crowd.
The renovated homestead floorplan is 273sqm sitting on a 1257sqm block. Photo / Supplied
The kitchen was moved into this big, open space that leads all the way to the deck and pool. Photo / Supplied
“My children have so many memories there, it’s been an amazing and very practical family home with space for everybody.”
She shares that it has been a venue for many family social events and gatherings – from end-of term primary school class pool parties, to 21sts and even a sit-down lunch for her mother’s 70th birthday.
“In the lockdowns at one stage we had one university student, one in Year 13 and one in Year 12 all working at home at their own desk, in their own space, which was amazing.”
The two separate offices also means that both parents can work from home yet still remain connected to family life.
In 2011 the family moved out for a year and embarked on a massive renovation. Working with Greg Jones from Jones Architects, their goal was to preserve the classic feel and original charm of the home while tastefully and timelessly updating it for modern living and comfort.
The original stables were converted into what is now a self-contained pool house. Photo / Supplied
“Originally the darkest room in the house was the old kitchen so I was trapped in there feeding young children,” she laughs. “So we moved the kitchen into this big space that now opens all the way through out to the pool and the deck.”
The significant floorplan incorporates the large open-plan kitchen, dining and living that flows out poolside, a separate TV/playroom, five bedrooms (two ensuited), a family bathroom and separate toilet. This includes the upstairs guest suite (or alternative master bedroom) which has a Juliet balcony with views to the Sky Tower. The pool house, with its bedroom, kitchenette and bathroom, presents all kinds of utilisation possibilities.
“When my husband started his business he has his team in there, we’ve had elderly grandparents stay and it was also Airbnb’d for a while,” Bridget says.
“As we used to live overseas we’ve had friends come and visit for long periods of time, so it’s been a private space for them. Or someone could use it as a gym or a Pilates studio.”
While located in a prime, well-connected position right at the heart of the local Meadowbank village and across the road from the shopping centre, number 50 is an urban oasis that enjoys a lovely sense of peace and privacy.
In 2011, the current owners embarked on a massive renovation where the goal was to preserve the classic feel and charm of the home while tastefully updating it. Photo / Supplied
“Interestingly most people don’t even know it’s there, even though you drive past it all the time. It’s got this big shelter belt of trees right along the street so you’ve got no idea of the scale of property that is behind the fence,” she says.
“It’s set back with a big lawn and a big driveway and parking area – once you get in and close the electric gates it doesn’t seem like you’re on the main road at all, it’s totally safe and secure.”
As their children grew more independent, the bus stop across the road provided transport to three different secondary schools and the supermarket’s proximity was a huge bonus for hungry teens.
This property is also future-proofed for development. Wastewater and stormwater connections are already in place for a multi-dwelling development, should a buyer wish to develop or sell to a developer at a later date.
Listing agent Cristina Casares, from Bayleys, says that it’s all about the wonderful history and character here.
“This is a very special property and a really big piece of land. The heritage of the original homestead has been beautifully preserved and it is a great family home with everything you need.”
- Sponsored by Bayleys
