The owners were intimately involved in the design. Collaborating with in Mike Bell they found a builder with not only the patience to realise their visions, but also the shared imagination to create truly unique features. Jewels of coloured glass bottles designed by the lady of the house are inset into a curved wall in the entranceway and the kitchen incorporates a stunning ancient six-metre-long swamp totara tree trunk.
Stones from Katikati’s Uretara River form the fireplace and surround in the dining room where doors slide back to let the outside in. The same stones also support the totara breakfast bar, at the end of which is a very large river boulder sliced to expose a polished, durable and beautiful work surface.
Two living areas, one the “quiet” room for grown-ups and one a family room, open at either end of the kitchen and dining area. Both have access to the decks and lawns and enjoy expansive views of the harbour.
A suspended staircase with deep timber treads and wrought iron balustrade leads to an indoor garden and an office on a mezzanine floor. The master bedroom with its private deck, stunning views, ensuite and dressing rooms, is also on this level. A separate wing with two harbour-facing bedrooms captures the morning sun and accommodates a family bathroom, guest room with ensuite and hobby room.
