Desirable design and location

This iconic Merivale home, designed by multi award winning Auckland architect Malcolm Walker, showcases contemporary living at its finest.

The honest and unadorned block, timber and concrete provide a sense of robust permanence and timeless appeal.

Clean lines and generous expanses of glazing make the most of the sun-drenched northfacing aspect, with living opening to a private patio and the low maintenance grounds.

This wonderful example of flowing open-plan living, and an easy-care outdoor entertaining area is perfectly placed in its inner-urban setting, with the vast green expanse and peace of Hagley Park just a few steps away and similarly easy access to the boutique and specialist shops, services and cafes of Victoria Street.

Positioned across the northern aspect of the home are the interconnected living spaces. With a wall of glass providing acoustic separation when required, without interrupting the flow of light.

The well-appointed kitchen is designed for entertaining and family living, with an island breakfast bar and sunny window seat.

Large sliders can be pushed back to connect the indoors with the grounds, walled from the street for privacy and complemented with structural, easycare plantings.

Upstairs are three double bedrooms and an office, with the master a light retreat with tiled ensuite.

A family bathroom with bath and shower serves the other bedrooms and there is a guest powder room on the ground floor.

While its central location means you can leave the car at home, more often than not, there is a double internal access garage and off-street parking for guests.

Coming with the allimportant zoning for soughtafter schools including Elmwood School, Heaton Intermediate, Burnside High and Christchurch Girls and Boys High Schools, it also offers easy proximity to private schools.

‘‘Those looking for a premier

urban lifestyle will find it here,’’ says Brendan Hart, who is marketing the property with Cameron Bailey for Harcourts ‘‘It’s classic architecture, and location make it an ideal proposition for those who want the comfort and style without the high maintenance.’’

Scheduled to go under the hammer in just over two weeks, this weekend’s open homes are a good place to confirm your expectations of an appealing lifestyle in an area that continues to be a seriously good investment.