20 Rawene Avenue, Westmere, Auckland

AN EXHILARATING SANCTUARY

Not just a beautifully crafted work of art on a monumental scale in an incredibly peaceful waterfront setting where views stretch across the harbour, this resort-like family retreat is a luxuriously welcoming sanctuary. You can launch your paddle board from the water's edge or potentially build a boat shed. Hard to believe, this special location is a mere 4km to the CBD and moments to Auckland's hottest precincts - Ponsonby, the Viaduct and Westhaven Marina.

Grand, light-filled living spaces are composed of sensory tactile layers. Sculptural castle-like concrete walls up to one metre in depth resonate permanence alongside bead blasted and pleated cedar with oak and basalt floors. Plush velvet drapes and carpets add a sumptuous effect.

Such an exquisitely moody palette makes for exceptional entertaining for red carpet cocktail events, gala dinners and product launches. It was host to the gala evening to the Rugby World Cup 2011 final.

While it has a dramatic Hollywood elegance, it is distinctly New Zealand. From an understated street presence, the nearly 2000sqm property draws visitors along a stream that meanders through a rugged forest-like courtyard garden, inside the 731sqm house, out to a shimmering pool and the sea beyond.

It was sensitively designed by multi-award-winning architect David Ponting who worked alongside interior designer, Ann Motion, renowned for her work on superyachts. Motion was inspired by the work of French designer Christian Liagre.

From start to finish, the build took four and a half years. Set across two sites, the home is ultra-generous with large flowing versatile indoor-outdoor spaces. Every room is substantial including a 100sqm cave-like entertaining space below, a large home theatre expanding from the main lounge, a sound-proofed music room/gym and mezzanine library plus four amazing bedroom suites.

Realise this opportunity to live an extraordinary lifestyle in a breath-taking masterpiece.