Mediterranean meditation
Surrounded by lofty palms on one of The Mount’s most coveted streets, this transformed 60s’ Beazley home is an entertainer’s paradise, and a serene minimalist sanctuary of space and light.
Words Jo Ferris | Photos Hunter Studios
Sitting in one of Mount Maunganui’s sought-after streets, this home doubles the prestige with a rare, full site – a tropical oasis at that. Towering palms are about the only feature this couple didn’t introduce,
when buying a home that lacked architectural finesse. They took a 60s’ Beazley and transformed it into a luxury Mediterranean resort.
While the original home had been extended, it was substantially different
to what exists now. With raised ceilings in the open plan living area, new master wing, redesigned staircase and a complete overhaul of the back yard, this home is an expression of style.
Elegant and considered in its complexity, simplicity is the star. It showcases the innate talent usually associated with professional interior design. Yet, this couple understand that less is more. The continuity of space and texture make this house a sanctuary by the beach.
The tone and natural texture form an intimate story that begins at the front door. The curvature of a stairwell day bed is stylish and genius use of an unusual space – a precious hideaway for secret moments.
As stairs lead up to family living, a feature wall showcases the artistry of imported Venetian lime plaster – flecks of golden mica punctuating this finish to mimic beautifully aged Italian stucco.
Featured on a back-lit wall behind the TV and again in the master suite, the lime plaster is a subtle salute to the home’s European inspiration. The theme throughout – structured lines and curves underpin its striking simplicity. Streamed with light and sun, skylights and raked ceilings continue out to a sun-drenched loggia with views to Mauao peeking through luscious green palms.
The back loggia is an entertainer’s dream, with a Mediterranean-inspired pizza oven and outdoor kitchen keeping the party in one place. An edible garden for salads and fruiting banana palms make this space an exotic retreat.
The minimalist approach throughout hides switches and anything that upsets the finesse. Detail is discreet yet refined. Brushed gold accents add a touch of sophistication and elegance, while smart lighting technology removes obstructions which would deflect the clean finish. The streamlined excellence of cabinetry from the kitchen and scullery to bathrooms and extraordinary storage in the master wing is the work of craftsmen. Handmade curves are constant; either dramatic and a showpiece or subtle and in the background.
Complete with self-contained living quarters downstairs, gated security
and garden ribbons that embrace this home with magnificent palms; it is an extraordinary example of how complex design transforms to the simplicity of interpretation.
70 Valley Road, Mount Maunganui