Serene oasis dream turned reality
Photos Helen Bankers | Words Nikita Oliver Metcalfe
For Mark and Christian Newman, the creation of their resort-style family haven was a collaborative effort, resulting in a true masterpiece that stands as a testament to perseverance and the power of a shared vision.
Christian and Mark, seasoned by previous renovations, approached the creation of their new home with a clear vision. The first was to find a builder that shared their passion and motivation for the build. After a seamless sales process, excellent communication, and a fixed price, the couple were sold; finding their perfect match with Landmark Homes.
The couple’s design brief was an intricate tapestry of desires; a home where every inch spoke to purpose and luxury. Embracing the essence of family life, they envisioned a layout that offered both intimate retreats and vibrant communal spaces. The outdoor area was to serve as a focal point, while privacy was top of mind; with the notion of dual wings providing an escape for the adults when needed, and the kids as they get older. Woven throughout was the commitment to seamlessly intertwine the beauty of nature with the interiors, which they had expert help by engaging interior designer, Lulu Wilcox.
The result is a meticulously-designed haven embracing the magnificence of the outdoors whilst nurturing intimate family moments within. A leafy corner oasis, complete with water feature and fish pond, sets the scene at the entryway and, with floor to ceiling glass on two sides, continues through to the living area. High ceilings throughout the kitchen and family room offer a grandeur to complement styling features such as chandeliers and gold accents, softened by water views and a natural colour palette welcoming the outdoor landscape inside.
Frankie and Lulu’s wing is a child’s dream, featuring mirrored rooms – each with a built-in bunk bed – which opens out to a shared playroom. A guest bedroom offers flexibility, while the couple’s resort vision truly comes to life with a charming pool house, providing a tranquil respite for visitors with feature wallpaper and pendant lighting setting the scene for an island vacation.
The architectural beauty of this home is captured by the stunning lines and angles created in the outdoor sanctuary which is the heart of the home. Featuring a pool, spa, built- in barbeque and bar fridge, and multiple seating areas, it’s easy to see why it’s such a focus. Glass fencing around the pool area ensures the stunning coastal view is embraced, while black, wood, and concrete exterior materials combine to create a striking contrast against the natural backdrop.
In a wing all of its own is the master bedroom, separated by a long hallway which tucks away a shared office. Sumptuous blue velvet adorns the entire wall of the bed that anchors
the master bedroom, which also enjoys the same stunning coastal views as the rest of the house. A walk-through wardrobe leads to a tranquil master bathroom with an opulent bathtub in front of a floor-to-ceiling window framing that inescapable view.
The path to Christian and Mark’s dream home was driven by an unwavering pursuit of perfection, which meant a whopping 54 variations were made by the couple to sculpt the home that is so close to their hearts. “It is our forever-home and I didn’t want to live with things I didn’t like,” admits Christian. The culmination of two years of passion, planning, and perseverance has resulted in this couple turning their dream home into a reality... and they love it!
www.Instagram.com/LoveFromYourDads | www.LandmarkHomes.co.nz
