193 Urquhart Road, Karaka

If you are lucky enough to be invited to view this home you are in for a life changing treat. Designed by Michael O'Sullivan 22 years ago, it is a home that references much of what is considered to be mainstream Architectural thinking today. Parallels of simple and sustainable planning are made to the likes of Aalto, Wright and Neutra in Palm Springs. The Architect spent much time in the area, including many childhood holidays on the Awhitu peninsula looking back at this land, and was determined that the home speak of the common ground between the New Zealand landscape and simply beautiful Architecture. This meant specifically designing an aluminium weatherboard that captured the agrarian surrounding land and having it anodised to match the celebrated summer tones of this beautiful landscape. The home is primarily orientated east/west with an approach from the south. A traditional Atea wall of hardwood sleepers holds visitors and then draws them across a bridge of a 'Palm Springs like landscape' to the front door. Once inside the majestic horizontality of the harbour is revealed, exciting either at day or night. A galvanised steel stair ascends to a Neutra like gloriette to indulge long summer days with 360 views to the Hunua ranges during the day through to the airport lights and sky tower beyond at night. There are the obvious trappings you would expect in a home of this international calibre, such as a salt water self cleaning swimming pool, and a Guest House which includes the property's fourth bedroom. Three car garaging includes utility storage, plus generous motor court for guest parking. The two acres of vast lawns north, south, east and west holds huge potential for a gardener to fully express themselves. Make an effort to visit this act of Architectural excellence, you will have your breath taken from you. Phone for viewing times....