A HOME TO LOVE; WHATEVER THE SEASON

Market-place offerings such as this one have become rare indeed and when they do, active buyers can't help themselves but to sit up and take notice, whilst passive shoppers will be drawn in and tempted by the many features and benefits on offer.\nHarking back to 1909 this gorgeous villa has slowly evolved over time to emerge as an appealing home for modern-day families who require space along with an optional living configuration. Traditional character features are in abundance and become apparent from the minute you step onto the partially enclosed, wrap-a-around verandah at the front of the house. Enter through the front door and a remarkably spacious, full height foyer leads to the formal living rooms or further down the wide hallway to bedrooms and informal living areas. The foyer has its own share of character delights including a gallery of colourful, leadlight windows. North-facing, the formal lounge is elegant and breathtakingly beautiful. A high-stud showcases perfectly the ceiling rose, ornate cornice work, a bay window with more coloured glass and lead panelled windows plus a carved mantel around the fireplace. This room is light and airy, so in contrast the formal dining room has been decorated with dark shades of red, effectively complementing yet more decorative adornments but also ensuring an intimate atmosphere can be enjoyed within such a large room. \nDownstairs offers three large double bedrooms with built in wardrobes, the family bathroom and an office which could easily serve as a sixth bedroom if required. Informal living has been added at the rear of the house and has been cleverly crafted to integrate well with the original structure. Combining a sitting room and informal dining area the aspect is to the north and west with French doors to a sheltered verandah and brick patio. An L-shaped kitchen overlooks the pool cum entertaining area, and features a large walk-in pantry. Upstairs comprises two very large bedrooms, and a second bathroom. They lead off a wide landing which is ideal for a study nook, or simply a quiet place to sit and read a book. More practical features of the home are the large cloakroom plus laundry, the latter with a third shower and adjacent toilet. Heating is mainly by way of 21 diesel fired hot water radiators plus there is a woodburner and HRV system. This lovely home is set in magnificent gardens which boast many mature specimens of trees, shrubs and vines including Dogwood, Kowhai and the prerequisite Wisteria wrapping its way around the verandah.\nA carport, double garaging plus loads of storage and off-street parking add to the appeal. Clearly, this property offers close proximity to the CBD, the Merivale and Northlands shopping precincts along with zoning for Christchurch Boys' High School, Heaton Intermediate and Paparoa Primary Schools. \n