Having previously lived on the edge of Cornwall Park, the owners of this classic, mid-century home, inspired by the designs of legendary Frank Lloyd Wright, wanted to stay close to green spaces, so quiet and secluded Glenfell Place, at the foot of Mount Eden, was a perfect find.
Although the street is a somewhat prestigious one, with grand and imposing Government House situated directly opposite, that wasn’t an important factor for the family at 17A Glenfell Place in Epsom, Auckland.
“We just loved the way that Mount Eden felt like part of our own backyard for our children and dogs,” she says.
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The property is single-level on 1351sqm of flat grounds, and is opposite Government House. Photo / Supplied
“We also really liked that it was a north-facing, single level home on 1351sqm flat grounds, which meant our sons had lots of room to run around while they were small, then, when they became teenagers the layout of the house was especially ideal.”
The property comprises three wings, intersected by an internal-access double garage and the kitchen, dining and living zone is enormous.
“We had a new kitchen put in a few years ago,” the owner says.
The new kitchen was installed a few years ago. Photo / Supplied
A study and one of four bathrooms lie beside the kitchen, while the family bathroom is situated next to the entrance to the home.
In the central section there are three bedrooms, including the master suite with its own bathroom and walk-in wardrobe, then comes a semi-self-contained flat, with a large bedroom, bathroom and living room with kitchenette.
“As teenagers our boys and their friends had lots of happy times in there playing pool and table tennis,” the owner says.
“We could enjoy our end of the house while knowing they were safe.”
The property has four bedrooms, a double garage and dual access. Photo / Supplied
A paved terrace surrounds much of the house and can be reached via French doors from the dining room, living area and three of the bedrooms. The section has well established plants and trees.
“It is incredibly sheltered here, and we’re often fooled, heading out for a run or bike ride, and only realising it’s windy when we get to the end of the street.”
The owner says that it’s always nice having events on at Government House occasionally, especially when there’s an orchestra.
“An earlier owner of our house is believed to have added a second driveway at 15 Castle Drive, next to Government House in the hope of being invited to functions there.”
As a result, the house still enjoys dual access.
17A Glenfell Place in Epsom has four bathrooms. Photo / Supplied
Linda Galbraith, from Barfoot & Thompson, Parnell, who is marketing the property with Alex Baker from the Remuera branch, believes that a large part of its appeal is the location.
It is close to Newmarket with the new Westfield 277 Broadway, and just a short stroll to Mount Eden village for a coffee.
“And, of course, it’s zoned double-Grammar, which is a very big attraction, along with the easy motorway access at Gillies Avenue,” she says.
Being a neighbour to Government House means you can enjoy the orchestra from your backyard when there are events across the road. Photo / Supplied
Meanwhile, the owners’ sons have long since left home. “It sounds cliched, but really have had nearly 20 happy years here and now it’s time for a new family to move in.”
17A Glenfell Place in Epsom, Auckland is scheduled to be sold at auction on October 6.
