Escaping the city

Like many others over the recent lockdowns, Aucklanders John and Ali Hackett came to the realisation that living in the city was no longer where they wanted to be. 

They’re now enjoying a brand-new home with a relaxed country lifestyle in Whitford – close enough to the city for convenience, but free from the hectic pace of the city.

Taking the first step

It was while out on a country drive that the retired couple came to the realisation that their Auckland city apartment was no longer a good fit for the lifestyle they wanted. 

“Our kids are living overseas, we’re retired, and there was really no need for us to be right in the city any longer,” says John.

Having built two homes in the past, the couple decided they had one more build left in them, and set about finding the perfect site, and the perfect build team.

After visiting Landmark Home’s Whitianga and Omokoroa showhomes and seeing the level of quality and design talent on offer, the Hacketts decided that Landmark was the right fit for them. 

“We also had a friend who used Landmark to build his home in Omaha and spoke very highly of the experience,” says John. “So we felt pretty confident about taking the next step”.

Having found the perfect 800m² section in Whitford that already had plans drawn up by Landmark for the previous owners, the Hacketts sat down with the Landmark team to personalise the plans to suit. 

“There were a few things we wanted to change such as the exterior cladding and making the kitchen bigger,” says Ali. “But it was a really easy process that didn’t take long at all.”

Embracing the great outdoors

Built in a pavilion style with one side as single level and the other double, the Hacketts wanted their new 290m² home to make the most of the home’s rural aspect with a fantastic indoor-outdoor flow.  

Three ranch sliders flow from the living areas to the outdoors which is north facing with views of Turanga Creek and the surrounding bush. 

“It’s just beautiful,” says John “You feel like you’re a world away from everything.”

With a louvred roof system and built-in schist barbecue and outdoor fire, the couple are well set up to entertain guests and family. 

“I love the outdoor area,” says Ali. “We’ve also added a private recessed spa pool with architectural screening and an outdoor shower.”

John & Ali's favourite features

The couple added a few ‘wow factor’ features to their home including a natural oak wine cabinet, designed by John, that stands three metres wide and ceiling high. 

The cabinet was built inside the ‘TV room’ which has been finished in dark blue tones to create a relaxed but sophisticated setting. 

“It’s the most stunning room – and very snug,” says John. “It’s where we spend a fair bit of time in the evenings – not just because of the wine cabinet though!”

Upstairs, the master suite is another favourite room for both John and Ali. 

“I absolutely love the colour scheme that the Landmark design team helped create – they did a fabulous job,” says Ali. 

The suite includes a large walk-in wardrobe and a fully tiled ensuite with a doorless shower featuring glass panelling and a twin vanity with LED halo lighting.

“We originally planned to have our master suite on the lower level, but with the upper-level view being so fantastic, it soon became obvious that it was the better option."

And for guests, a second equally beautiful suite has been provided on the lower level. 

It was also important for the couple to each have their own office – one upstairs, one down, along with a large double garage with a workshop.

John worked closely with the design team to create a kitchen that would cater to his love of cooking. 

“We have a large scullery which is great from a practical perspective,” he says. 

A sloping gable ceiling featuring architectural batten detailing adds to the sense of spaciousness. 

And in the living area floating shelves with recessed LED lights sit either side of a gas fire to create a warm and practical focal point.

Another great feature of the home that offers both a practical and aesthetic benefit, is the use of lower-level tread lighting with sensors – ideal for guiding the way during the night, without having to switch on bright lights.

And for guests, a second equally beautiful suite has been provided on the lower level. 

It was also important for the couple to each have their own office – one upstairs, one down, along with a large double garage with a workshop.

John worked closely with the design team to create a kitchen that would cater to his love of cooking. 

“We have a large scullery which is great from a practical perspective,” he says.A sloping gable ceiling featuring architectural batten detailing adds to the sense of spaciousness. 

And in the living area floating shelves with recessed LED lights sit either side of a gas fire to create a warm and practical focal point.

Another great feature of the home that offers both a practical and aesthetic benefit, is the use of lower-level tread lighting with sensors – ideal for guiding the way during the night, without having to switch on bright lights.

Simplifying the design process

The Hacketts worked with Landmark Homes South East Auckland interior designer...

This is only half the story of this country home shaped by the wishes of its owners.... 

Read the full story of the Hackett’s beautiful new home and how Landmark Homes can help you create a home that fits your lifestyle – right down to the light pendants and wine cabinet – here. Or contact the South East Auckland team today to get started

Designed by: Landmark Homes

Story by: Trendsideas