31 Paritai Drive, Orakei

An iconic architectural statement, internationally renowned Gibbs house on the Paritai Drive clifftop, Auckland's most expensive city waterfront, is a spectacular art gallery wrapped around an extraordinary home. Its versatile, dramatic and light-filled spaces represent an incredible opportunity for buyers seeking impressive entertaining or display possibilities, on a scale rarely found. The building would be ideal as a consulate. The expansive 1,315 sqm property boasts an award-winning sub-tropical garden, shallow waterways and pools and sweeping north-facing views over Okahu Bay, Waitemata Harbour and Bastion Point. It was innovatively designed by one of New Zealand's leading architects, David Mitchell of Mitchell Stout and built in 1991. An artwork in itself, the 918 sqm building integrates luxurious living into the gallery. Substantial and serene, private indoor and outdoor living areas overlook the sea and three large, bedroom suites are positioned to catch views. The primary suite includes large dressing room. Two offices could easily convert to bedrooms and the self-contained guest studio has its own entrance. Secure and discreet from the road, the property comes with generous garaging - internal double garage and double carport. At its heart, an impressive top-lit, three-story gallery space makes a glamorous venue, threaded through at various levels by transparent bridges made of glass block and stainless steel. Beautifully designed marble and travertine floors, sculptural contours and the abundance of light create a breath-taking, sense of theatre. In addition, the space comes with facilities that rival public galleries including temperature-controlled storage vaults, a wine cellar, even an electric platform to help you position art on the walls. Some exterior sculptures are also included, most notably the snake-like Phil Price kinetic sculpture which floats above a pond. Seize your chance to own a large, internationally significant home, venue and collector's piece in Auckland's finest location....