Viewing pleasure
Tauranga’s connection with water and scenery feeds the inspiration behind countless homes lucky enough to command envious views. From this Otumoetai Ridge, views change with the days and seasons.
Words Jo Ferris
Change is constant, and for this spectacular home, it not only represents a transformation of the site, but the journey of a couple who enjoy the challenge of creating something new.
That challenge began by removing the original 50s’ house from a significant site in Maxwells Road. The vision centred on views from this elevated spot – sun-drenched, with a panorama overlooking Tauranga’s inner harbour, port, Mount, and the cruise ship entrance between Mauao and Matakana Island.
Views and sun define this home’s design. Greeting both each morning is serene – either from the privacy of the master retreat upstairs, or downstairs in the family hub. The home follows the sun and ensures natural light and solar warmth is harnessed everywhere possible.
Architecturally designed, clean lines and quality construction look to the future, while staying true to the importance of function and flow. Impressive by any standard, there’s a down-to-earth warmth here that’s instantly relatable. The front-door greeting might be formal, but it quickly sways to this home’s outlook and focus on entertainment. The heated swimming pool tucks within a central courtyard to one side, which draws it almost inside the house. Clever design also incorporates a pool house with separate access to what doubles as an ensuite studio and jet ski drive-in. Perfect for spill-over visitors and brilliant recreational space when vacant.
As eyes drift to the main view, the home unveils its intriguing outlook. The sights and sounds of city life moving across Chapel Street provide the foreground for constant shipping and recreational marine activity – Mauao always in sight. Ever-changing by day, at night it’s enchanting. No need to lower the blinds here. Floor-length glazing is like a cinema screening of an endless movie. Warmth is constant, thanks to the day’s sun, while underfloor heating runs throughout the ground floor.
Open-plan living is spacious yet intimate, thanks to each area’s purpose and a masterpiece kitchen with its drawcard bar-stool feature. Clean lines match the home’s understated style, while the detail defines the craftsmanship underscoring the bespoke finish. Unique elements, fascinating nooks and niches intertwine versatility within rooms, walkways and outdoor privacy.
Ready for a new challenge, these owners will soon leave behind a special quality of life – passing on this home’s intrinsic warmth and endless fascination with the views it commands.
80 Maxwells Road, Otumoetai