Endless Summer Lifestyle

French Bay, definitely one of Auckland's best-kept secrets. Just a handful of homes among the swathes of lush native bush nestle at the edge of the bay, peering out across to the calm emerald water. It's a coastal paradise, quaint and pretty, a serene antidote to city living where you can kayak, paddleboard, swim or fish. The bay is often busy with Waterwise as local children come to learn how to sail. Yet the buzz of Titirangi is less than five minutes away.
Now just thirteen years old, this beautiful, light-filled contemporary home designed by architect Martin Northcott is superbly positioned about seventy-five metres from the water's edge, along from the Yacht Club where the owners have conveniently secured professional offices. The four bedroom home (or three plus media room) with three bathrooms was designed to maximise the incredible bay views. It expands right to the edge of the footprint of the previous cottage on the road to provide loads of space. The clever aspect is how it is so private, yet so sunny and open with glorious bush and sea views from everywhere.
Accessed via central stairs between spacious garaging, large open living features a stunning high arched sarked ceiling and honey-hued terrazzo floors. Deep cedar soffits add shelter and shade. Bi-folds open on three sides to several decks, making it tent-like in summer as gentle breezes waft through to keep it cool. Sit and watch the sunrises; shade under the Louvretech canopy for barbecues or shelter on the protected side if the wind creeps up in the afternoon. There is always the perfect place to be outdoors. While you watch the big screen in the main room, kids can chill out in the media room or fourth bedroom next door.
This gorgeous home might well be, the best place to live in Auckland. Superbly designed for entertaining, it is an incredible holiday hideaway that you will never want to leave.