Anyone who lives in an historic home identifies less as an owner and more as a guardian.
After a decade of memories at 6 Emerald Street in Epsom, Auckland, Deborah Simpson is preparing to pass the baton of responsibility and guardianship of this historically-listed home onto someone else.
“It really is such a wonderful place. It’s been a privilege to be her guardian for the last 10 years. My son and I have lived a wonderful life here and while I’m excited to move onto the next thing, it has been a really emotional decision to leave.”
It’s not just Simpson who has fond memories here.
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“A few years ago, a gentleman rang the bell and explained that the home had once belonged to his aunt and uncle. He talked about his childhood and how he and his sister had fond memories spending holidays there; he remembers family weddings held in the backyard too.”
6 Emerald Street has a 2021 RV of $5.5 million and will be sold at auction on February 22. According to OneRoof records, the property last changed hands in 2013 for $3.22m.
From the street it’s instantly obvious that this is a special property. The villa oozes classic charm while the beautifully manicured garden welcome visitors with open arms. Inside, lofty ceilings, wooden floors, restored fireplaces, and ornate historical features blend beautifully with modern creature comforts.
After a decade of memories at 6 Emerald Street in Epsom, homeowner Deborah Simpson is preparing to pass the baton of responsibility and guardianship of this villa onto someone else. Photo / Supplied
“Every season is different here, from the cherry blossoms in spring to summers spent splashing in the pool. In winter I love what I like to call the ‘reading room’, where I can pull the curtains closed, sit in front of the open fire and under the incredible ornate pressed steel ceiling and chandelier – it’s just so lovely and cosy.”
Four large bedrooms, two with ensuites, and two living rooms make family living effortless. Outside, the pool and pool house make for easy summer entertaining.
“The back deck looks west so we get beautiful sunsets. During summer we spend most of our time out there, with BBQs on the deck and everyone in the pool.”
The neighbourhood is one-of-a-kind here too.
“When we first moved in, our neighbours threw a party to welcome us to the street. Every Christmas, we close the street off and throw Christmas drinks, and everyone on the street brings a plate and celebrates the end of the year together. That sense of instant community has been really special.”
The back deck looks west and during summer, the homeowner says, a lot of time is spent on the deck doing barbecues and swimming in the pool. Photo / Supplied
Lofty ceilings, wooden floors, restored fireplaces and ornate historical features blend beautifully inside with modern creature comforts. Photo / Supplied
Barfoot & Thompson listing agent Diane West says the home’s size and location makes it ideal for family living.
“For a modern family looking for a relaxed lifestyle, you really can’t get much better than this sort of property,” she says.
“It’s close to the wide, open spaces of Cornwall Park and the cafés and eateries at Greenwood’s Corner, plus it’s in the Grammar Zone. But with over 1500sqm of land at home it’s a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city.”
For Deborah, it’s time to move on – but not before she takes one last stroll around Cornwall Park.
“Every morning I walk the dog in the park. You get to know the animals in the park, and in spring it’s a magical place to be with all the calves and lambs and daffodils. But it’s my home that is most special to me here. It has been my absolute honour to be a part of this home’s history.”
