RV $2.1m : For Sale now $1,485,000

Behind the wrought-iron gates of this supremely picturesque sanctuary lies a four-bedroom amily home where the best of past and present blend into sheer bliss.

This exquisite Bernard Winton Johns design retains the Arts & Crafts hallmarks of his indelible legacy while offering a sublime lifestyle on the doorstep of everything that makes Karori so family-friendly. Across the road is one of Wellington's best cafes, Penny's Coffee, while just metres away are the library, medical centre, shops and a choice of supermarkets as well as the bus routes that make the CBD so easily accessible.

But all trace of the outside world virtually disappears when you step into this haven of character, comfort and seclusion, where the kids can run around safely while you entertain in style or just unwind amid the birdsong and beauty. On one side of this superbly-presented weatherboard-and-tile showcase is a leafy, landscaped courtyard with the bonus of off-street parking for several cars if you want to use the internal garage for extra storage or recreation. On the other side is an oasis of greenery and serenity, where established trees encircle flat lawn and a delightful al fresco terrace where you can breakfast, brunch or just enjoy a beverage as the sun goes down. You can then retire to the warmth and magnificence of the matai and rimu interior with its stylish mix of vintage and contemporary living, from projecting angled bay windows and diamond-shape leadlights to gas central heating, a Miele-appointed kitchen with a breakfast alcove, and a Jetmaster gas fireplace for the ultimate in cosy winter ambience. As well as a formal lounge and separate dining room, there's a huge, light-filled family or media room with a built-in corner divan, lovely garden views and French doors to a wraparound terraced with a pergola. Where better for the children to amuse themselves while you relax with friends in the lounge? All the double-bedrooms are upstairs. Each has its own unique charm, from the study nook in one to the sunroom in another to a third that shares an ensuite with the master bedroom. The master faces north and already has its own dressing room (or home office or nursery) but there's potential to make this a truly palatial suite by converting the third bedroom to another dressing room for unbeatable his'n'hers harmony. Like the semi-ensuite, the family bathroom has underfloor heating while both the separate toilet and downstairs powder room stand out for their fabulous feature wallpaper.

Such distinction epitomises this remarkable home's amazing attention to detail in the heart and soul of blue-chip Karori.

Buyer information: Building report and LIM available Deadline Reserve now $1,485,000. The sellers current circumstances have changed and look forward to the new owners making it their own.