| 171 Queen Street, Northcote Point | Agent: Jo Glancy |

By Amy Houlihan.

Tucked away on Queen Street, hidden behind sturdy white wooden gates, number 171 is a private, 997m2 Northcote Point sanctuary. The original bungalow has been renovated to add extra space and chic interior style, along with the addition of a two-bedroom cottage at the rear.

Northcote Point is sought-after for its exceptionally central and accessible location, as well as its charming heritage homes. While the neighbourhood is family-friendly and picturesque, the viaduct, CBD, Ponsonby and Takapuna are all only a five-minute drive from home off-peak. The Point has a collection of cafes, bars and restaurants, as well as the boutique cinema and ferry for those who commute.

What sets this property apart from many others in the area is it’s positioning on the site – back from the road and slightly lower, affording a good sense of privacy. There’s room for multiple vehicles to be parked off-street, with a carport, garage and designated space for the occupants of the cottage.

The residence was originally crafted in 1922 and showcases heritage craftsmanship elements of the era – white weatherboard construction, feature leadlight windows and gabled roof. Renowned architect John Cornthwaite helmed the renovation process, enhancing, expanding and maximising the rooms seamlessly, retainingthe timeless signature style throughout.

A boardwalk leads up to the front door, which opens into the expansive, open-plan living, dining and kitchen room. Warm timber tones, ceiling fans and polished wood floors create a soothing, peaceful ambiance. Guests and family are always connected within these areas – the elongated kitchen curves around, overlooking the swimming pool from its furthermost tip.

The master suite has a large dressing room, with wide wooden steps leading up to the bathroom’s open platform. The remaining three bedrooms, or two plus office, are serviced by the main bathroom at the front of the house. The significant space downstairs has polished concrete floors and its own entrance, so could serve a rumpus, teenage retreat, home office
or gym. Abundant basement storage lends the potential for further development, plus is the ideal location and temperature for the wine cellar.

The swimming pool complex is positioned between the two dwellings, with dark stained timber decks, stone walls and tropical plantings framing the sun-soaked area. The two-bedroom cottage has its own access down the side of the main house and enough separation to be completely private – perfect for renters, extended family, guests or an Air BnB. It was designed to be a mirror image and features the same diamond leadlight windows and relaxed, elegant living. The open plan lounge, dining and
accommodation flow out to three outdoor living spaces and gardens that frame the dwelling. Professional landscaper Claire Talbot has simplified and brought the exquisite gardens to life over the past few months, creating a tranquil green retreat.

This is one of the area’s finest, most significant retreats and has the exceptional advantage of a second dwelling.