35 Sophia Street Glenholme, Rotorua District

Thanks to two towering trees in this home's backyard, and greenery enhancing the seclusion, there is a charming sense of an English country garden here. Playground lawns invite croquet and parties, or luncheons on the patio settings that extend entertainment out into the sun. This home's exterior has a colonial hint, while the black cladding's contrast with white joinery instils an American barn influence. It's not until you step inside, that the rustic approach of New Zealand's sarked walls adds another dimension to this home's appeal. It's an eclectic story; one that introduces an individual personality. It's also a story of personal preference on how to live here.
Dormer windows in the high gabled roofline indicate there are two levels. Flexibility shines with this upper level. A mezzanine landing separates two bedrooms at either end; one with an ensuite bathroom, the other more spacious as a result. While there is a separate office downstairs, there are options on this upper level for a workplace, or separate children's quarters - albeit with a lounge setting that stays in touch with family life below.
Another bedroom downstairs also offers flexible options for its use. Linked with family living and sharing semi-ensuite access to the bathroom, this room provides numerous options.
Family living sits at the heart of this home, while maintaining close links with all the bedrooms. Space in the main hub is enhanced, thanks to its soaring gabled ceilings and staircase link with the mezzanine above. The natural approach of sarked walls and timber flooring exudes the sense of a country lodge, albeit softened by the appeal of white ceilings.
The kitchen raises the bar with a different tone. It's modern, finished with white, clean lines, high-end appliances and the essential bar-stool island drawing people to socialise as kiwis like to do.
Family living has room for dining or a coffee corner, before moving to sofa comfort around the fire. A larger lounge is next door. While the connection is close, French doors close it off for dinner parties and evening conversation. By day, French doors in both living areas open outside to the patio settings and that fabulous garden beyond. Seclusion isn't restricted to this gorgeous backyard, however. Fencing and white, picket-gate security ensure this is a
safe haven for children and pets. Location is key. This is a lovely spot in a popular Glenholme street; near Arikikapakapa Reserve with its golf course and parkland appeal. Handy to Fenton Street's drive to the CBD, this is also near other sporting recreation, the Redwood Forest, together with SH links to the bike park and ski fields beyond. There's still time to make the most of what's left of the season, while spring and summer aren't far away.