POWERHOUSE
Step into a world in which it’s Mana by name and a sense of mana by nature.
Step into a world in which it’s Mana by name and a sense of mana by nature.
WORDS JO FERRIS
In the exclusive enclave of Mana Ridge, Welcome Bay, this home marries the charm of a country house with the finesse of skilful contemporary architecture. The site occupies the pinnacle of this private estate, which is home to just 13 residences.
Designed by Adam Taylor of ATA, the house is clad with Lawson cypress board and batten, and is slowly achieving Adam’s goal for it to develop a gentle patina over time. The result lends it the comfort and familiarity of a farmhouse that belies the modernity and up-to-the-minute thinking within.
Three gabled wings play to the property’s strengths. Built to capture the panoramic views, they provide a sweeping outlook that embraces the city, the harbour and Mauao, as well as the western outlook towards the Kaimai Range. The wings have different perspectives, but share common ground in their dawn-to- dusk brilliance.
Among the trio of bedrooms in the eastern wing is a sound-proofed main suite with a glass-corridor entry that provides both separation and connection.
A fourth sleep space with its own ensuite sits above the garage. Soaring ceilings and thoughtful design in the heart of the home guarantee the sun, views and garden support every aspect of family life.
Courtesy of a generous window with an inviting built-in seat, Mauao is the star of the kitchen. On either side, the dining and lounge areas have their own special links with the scenery.
So pivotal is the outdoors to the lifestyle here that there’s even an alfresco ‘restaurant’. A recent addition, it stands alone as an entertainment destination, yet remains in harmony with the rest of the home.
Divided into living and dining areas, this substantial space is anchored by an impressive Argentinian barbecue. Large glass sliders open onto expansive decking designed to enhance the party.
To the rear of the house, a taste of Tuscany emerges in a sheltered courtyard in which olive trees evoke the Italian influence. This is another fabulous entertaining space and assures safety for children and pets; it comes complete with a playhouse.
The final high-end elements in this area are a sunken gas fire pit and a heated, saltwater swimming pool.
Underfloor and ducted heating, solar panels and a Tesla battery are a few of the other fantastic features to write home about at this landscaped beauty, and help to bring some thoughtful sustainability into the property’s powerfully prestigious picture.
23 Te Auhi Way, Mana Ridge, Welcome Bay