11A Tudor Street, Devonport, North Shore

Affordable living in Devonport village

Tucked up above the Devonport waterfront, and very close to the village, this 1950s weatherboard home on a 678sqm site has been elegantly modernised and presents a surprisingly affordable proposition for this top location. The three-level floorplan offers handy separation, with the top-level lounge showcasing extraordinary, panoramic views of Rangitoto, North Head, the city skyline and full expanse of the Waitemata Harbour.

It's all about the location here and the quiet neighbourhood is the perfect place to raise a family. Torpedo Bay is just a five-minute walk down the hill for refreshing beach dips, while Devonport Primary School is an easy stroll up the hill. All the village shops, eateries and CBD ferry are just a 15-minute wander along the waterfront.

The current owners extended the residence up and out and strengthened it with structural engineering. They also double glazed, insulated the walls, ceiling and floor, and added central heating and cooling.

Entry level is on the middle floor, where a peaked tongue and groove ceiling is accented with large skylights in the expansive lounge. A wood burner provides cosy winter warmth. The kitchen boasts a handy scullery, and the dining area flows out to a private garden space.

The three bedrooms on this level are well separated, with the master with ensuite and walk-in at one end of the house and two more bedrooms and the family bathroom at the other. Downstairs offers a fourth bedroom, ensuite bathroom and garden access, as well as an enormous basement area with garage style doors for storage.

Upstairs, the lounge and balcony offer a sweeping vista from Rangitoto Island to the Sky Tower and Harbour Bridge.

Off-street parking is available for multiple vehicles and a thriving garden features mature orange, mandarin, lemon and feijoa trees.

This is the former family home of Bruce Farr OBE, who New Zealand sailing aficionados will recognise as a prominent designer of racing and cruising yachts. He was a good friend of Sir Peter Blake and was able to observe all the activity on the harbour and gain inspiration for his acclaimed designs from the home's prestigious, elevated position, and he built boats in the basement.