Featured Property

This Arts and Crafts icon is on the market for the second time in 60 years

Article by Property Press

This Lloyd Bates Arts and Crafts icon in Devonport has been restored to its former glory. Take a look at this incredible property below

Details

Address: 18 Huia Street, Devonport
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 2
Parking: 3 off street

Contact details

Contact: Linda Simmons, 027459 0957
For sale: Expressions of Interest closing 19th Feb 2020 (unless sold prior)
Further listing details here
Bayleys Real Estate

This Arts and Crafts icon is on the market for the second time in 60 years

This landmark Lloyd Bates original has been masterfully, meticulously and respectfully restored to its former glory and is on the market for only the second time in 60 years. Built in 1929, ‘Inglis House’ was renowned New Zealand architect Bates’ largest ever commission, a grand three-story residence designed with English and American Arts and Crafts influences. Pioneering businesswoman Alice Inglis had the now Category 2 Listed Historic home built for herself and sister Ethel – it’s as much a statement in female empowerment as architectural ingenuity.

Celebrating an iconic position at the crest of Huia Street in Devonport, the charmed local lifestyle adds to the appeal. The sought-after neighbourhood is just a pleasant stroll along Calliope Road from the The Vic and Devonport village, while the CBD ferry terminal is an easy walk down the hill.

The current owners recognised the true heritage beauty and craftsmanship of the home, so embarked on the major restoration project with the help of architectural designer Patrick Malloch, and Dionisios Matiatos of Sir Builders. Discerning aficionados of the style will have the utmost appreciation and admiration for the astounding passion and precision that that has gone into the refurbishment. From the handcrafted pillars, panel work, ceilings and delightful asymmetry of the interior detailing, absolutely every element has been expertly reinvigorated, custom-made and brought back to life. It’s a feast for the senses of touch and sight and a true functional work of art, with finishes carefully curated to blend seamlessly with the aesthetic. These include sceenprinted English wallpaper, Thomas Crapper toilets with mahogany finished throne seats, polished brass switches and plugs from Bungalow and Villa, Perrin and Rowe tapware and French encaustic bathroom floor tiles.

The entry level is dedicated to the open-plan formal lounge and dining room, which flow into the bespoke chef’s kitchen. It boasts a sturdy parquet-style benchtop, hand-made using 10mm thick solid American Oak squares and rectangles. Custom French Quarter sawn oak cabinetry was also crafted by McKean Carnell and frames the statement cookery equipment, including the 1920s restored Quickmeal stove imported from America. The large oval light above sets an ambient mood. The kitchen opens out to the deck, which overlooks the generous, established grounds that could house a swimming pool complex with ease.

As well as immense historical and architectural significance, the home celebrates astounding 180 degree views of the Auckland harbour and cityscape. The ever-changing colours, moods and activity of the water mean there’s always something to experience and enjoy, with excellent elevation ensuring all three levels are fully immersed in the outlook. All four bedrooms are separated across the three floors, with the master sanctuary at the top boasting a sitting area, large dressing room and opulent bathroom with Victorian slipper freestanding claw foot bath. The ground floor offers two more bedrooms, the brand new media room and lounge.

Although the residence is aesthetically historical, part of the restoration was to upgrade the structure, insulation, acoustics and weatherproofing to create a comfortable, contemporary living environment. Latest additions include a whole house water filter, ducted ventilation/ heating and cooling, central vacuum, LED lowlights and top of the range Finnish SAWO steam generator shower.

This extraordinary property must be experienced to believed – it’s one of the country’s finest historical passion projects.

Scroll down to take a tour through this home