Strong, clean lines and cladding of brick and charcoal-coloured weatherboards ensure this home makes a striking first impression. Street presence is further amplified by the entrance: a path seems to disappear into the house, but in reality travels beneath a pergola before arriving at the timber front door. The unequivocal message is, ‘Welcome, come on in’. The sharp, contemporary aesthetic continues inside the 153sqm home with two wings, three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Venture down the entry hall and a bright, L-shaped communal zone opens before you.

Here, the pale palette is punctuated by sleek, dark kitchen countertops and cabinetry in timber and rich green tones. Features such as a trio of pendant lights over the island, subtle under-cabinet illumination and timber-look flooring introduce warmth and harmony, while plenty of glazing and open sliders seamlessly connect to the outdoors. Behind the living spaces is a double garage with laundry. The second wing, on the opposite side of the main hall, is dedicated to private spaces. Lined up are three carpeted bedrooms — including a main room with tiled ensuite and a dressing room — and a bathroom and powder room. The house isn’t the biggest in its south-of-Auckland suburb, but Frame Homes has skilfully crafted a modern sanctuary that balances practicality with understated elegance. They’ve also delivered a property that issues an unmistakeably warm welcome.