11 Crown Terrace, Britannia Heights, Nelson

Architectural haven on the hill

You'll feel as if you're on holiday every time you come back to your architectural home with an outlook that's so private and peaceful you must see to believe. This contemporary home, so close to town, faces an astonishingly private, wide panorama of native bush, bay and city lights. There's hardly a neighbour in sight from the superb open-plan living and wide front decks which look over the native garden seamlessly adjoining a 180-degree sweep of bush gully and hillsides. Above the ridgeline is Tasman Bay and, to the right, the city whose lights turn on a sparkling show each night.With so much tranquility, sunshine and birdsong, there's a bach-like get-away-from-it-all feeling - albeit a very up-to-date distinctive "bach" with every comfort; double glazing and full insulation, two heat pumps, double garage with internal access and spacious kitchen with walk-in pantry. The 208sqm house built in 2011 matches its surrounds with its own appealing style; built with two pavilions and with a gallery looking over a step-down open-plan living room, with adjoining wide decks. The layout provides a separate wing for the master bedroom, a sanctuary away from the rest of the house. Two other bedrooms are light and bright and there's a sunny office area in the gallery which also enjoys inspiring picture-window views.The wide-fronted house, with picture windows from floor to ceiling, is designed to maximise the views and sunshine; facing north-west, enjoying the first light of the day. New owners can simply move in and enjoy this wonderfully relaxing home, with delightfully landscaped 932sqm grounds, no lawns to mow and mature plant-filled gardens that need little attention. It's the perfect lock-and-leave home. Watch the native hawks gliding across the gully or settle back into the snug deck area between the wings of the house for summer barbecue dinners with friends.