360 Paremata Road, Pauatahanui, Porirua, Wellington

A verdant and versatile lifestyle property that's been the family home of one of New Zealand's leading architecture practices is for sale for the first time in 22 years. This magnificent five bedroom residence is on nearly a hectare of landscaped grounds and native bush with subdivision potential and possible building sites for two other dwellings.

This 8741 sqm haven of seclusion and splendor has been developed to create resort-like living with a wonderful sense of discovery as you come up the drive of the lush bush-clad entrance, with 80 year old Phoenix palms and large Pohutukawa trees.

Citrus trees, raised vegetable beds and a substantial garden shed sit above a glassed-in swimming pool with stunning views over rolling lawn to the Pauatahanui Inlet and hills of Grays Farm.

The renovated house, which combines jarrah joinery with new full height Low-E tinted double-glazing, was built 27 years ago. All the living is single-level with internal access to about 160sqm of four-car basement garaging that was converted to office space for the architectural practice, with polished concrete flooring, a kitchenette, workshop and extensive storage.

Basalt steps ascend to the front door, which opens off a kwila veranda/deck into a long central hall with a vaulted ceiling. The formal lounge is to the left and the open-plan kitchen and family/dining room to the right.

The refurbished kitchen is expansive and has a five burner hob, steam oven, wall oven, dishwasher and central island, while the dining area can accommodate a 14 seat table.

The family area has a gas fireplace and opens to a large courtyard with an outdoor fireplace. The main bedroom suite opens to a big deck sited for morning sun and is located in its own separate wing which includes a study/ nursery.

Three more double bedrooms, one single bedroom/study, a full bathroom and a media room make up a further accommodation wing.

To view this stunning property, call Gael Van Hattum.