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A French couple found their ‘little world’ in NZ. Now they’re reluctantly leaving it

A French couple are reluctantly selling their dream home near Warkworth after a decade of family memories.

Alan Granville
Last updated: 21 August 2026 | 2 min read
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A French couple is reluctantly selling their architecturally designed home at 529 Cowan Bay Road near Warkworth. Designed by LTD Architectural Design Studio, the minimalist yet warm home sits on 1.4 hectares, offering privacy and a deep connection to the surrounding native bush.

The property features a convivial kitchen, large windows framing the landscape, and a sheltered, north-facing position. After creating their "little world" and even marrying there, the owners are now selling for family reasons.

The views are ever changing. Photo: HARCOURTS/ TRADE ME

The house is nestled into the landscape. Photo: HARCOURTS/ TRADE ME

A warm, minimalist interior designed around the landscape

The bespoke interior blends clean, minimalist design with warm timber, expansive windows and carefully considered cabinetry, creating a calm and inviting connection to the surrounding landscape.

Office space. Photo: HARCOURTS/ TRADE ME

Indoor-outdoor flow maximised. Photo: HARCOURTS/ TRADE ME

There are three bedrooms. Photo: HARCOURTS/ TRADE ME

Bath with a view. Photo: HARCOURTS/ TRADE ME

The home has its own microclimate. Photo: HARCOURTS/ TRADE ME

The home was designed by LTD Architectural Design Studio and built by DC Build. Photo: HARCOURTS/ TRADE ME

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Alan Granville Alan Granville
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