A thoughtfully crafted new luxury development of eight penthouse-sized apartments is set to reveal itself in Auckland’s sought-after St Marys Bay.
The large site at 87 Shelly Beach Road is secluded from view down a driveway, close to local Herne Bay and Ponsonby stores and eateries, as well as Point Erin and Westhaven Marina. Elevated on the northern slopes of the Waitematā ridgeline, the four-level Shelly Beach complex will house eight penthouse-sized apartments, all with sea views toward the Harbour bridge, Westhaven Marina, Rangitoto Island, Auckland CBD, and the Waitākere Ranges. Architects Monk Mackenzie, creators of Auckland’s internationally recognised Lightpath Cycleway, have designed Shelly Beach for property developer Vanguard & Co. They say the location was inspired by the coast. “The design takes its cues from a coastal rock edge, carved out by wave action over time – sky meets sea and stone.”
The building is articulated by cuts and recesses that show themselves as loggia (outdoor terraces), with overhanging gardens and strongly defined vertical cores and walls. The architects’ artistic focus is evident in sculptural elements such as floating landscaped planters, curved concrete internal and external walls, and the use of rammed earth throughout the landscaping.
Interior architect Ella Dallimore delivers the kind of quality and detail normally reserved for high-end custom homes and boutique luxury lodges, creating a sense of both home and holiday in each apartment. Interiors feature refined materials, highly crafted kitchens and bathrooms, and clever spaces for wine, art or classic car collections. Says Ella, “The interior solidity is balanced with softness from lush planting, curved surfaces and high-quality tactile fabrics. Internal elements such as lighting and joinery are bespoke, crafted by leading artisans from solid timber, cast bronze, natural stone, and marble with sedimentary layers to evoke the coastal feel.” Open spaces interconnect with curves, and contoured walls create movement. The same natural stone flooring continues across interior and exterior spaces. Living areas look outwards. In contrast, the master suite’s bathroom is a study in gentle retreat, inspired by Japanese bathing traditions and luxury spa experiences. Biodiversity is carefully considered across the site, reintroducing heritage botanicals such as swamp kakaha, first described as a species from specimens collected near Ponsonby Road. Shelly Beach brings to life some of the world’s most forward-thinking liveability trends.
The design takes its cues from a coastal rock edge, carved out by wave action over time – sky meets sea and stone.
Developer Michael Dallimore of Vanguard & Co explains, “Liveability is changing, and New Zealanders are embracing the thoughtful design practices they see internationally. Co-primary residences, where people split their time among two or more homes, suits the Kiwi lifestyle. Our buyers want house-like proportions and spaces that are flexible and efficient, with the ability for people to work from home. Apartments need to be rightsized, not downsized, and accommodate people’s collections without space, privacy, storage, and garaging compromises.” The eight apartments over four floors have generous proportions of over 255sqm. All apartments offer three bedrooms plus flexible media rooms, 2.9m-high ceilings, butler’s kitchens, generous living, and master/en suites with walk-in wardrobe.
Apartments are differentiated by the expansive sea views and varied outdoor spaces. North-facing podium terraceswrap around the ground floor. Winter gardens with hanging planters add versatility. Roof terraces are exclusive to top floor penthouses. Each apartment has its own lockable basement garage for up to four vehicles, all with an EV charger. Shelly Beach apartment sales particulars and pricing are by application. The on-site display suite is available with viewings by appointment through Pene Milne at NZ Sotheby’s International Realty. Construction is scheduled to start in 2022 and the development will be completed in 2024.
For more information, visit shellybeach.co.nz or contact Pene Milne on 021 919 940.
About Vanguard & Co:
Vanguard & Co brings a collaborative approach to design-driven property development. Architectural craftsmanship is at the forefront of every Vanguard & Co development. Working with design leaders, the focus is always to push the boundaries of what is possible to create enduring property of the highest quality.
About the architect:
Monk Mackenzie is a highly creative, multi-disciplinary studio of architects and designers. Partners Hamish Monk and Dean Mackenzie have worked with recognised global firms.
About the interior architect:
Ella Dallimore is an Auckland-based architect and interior designer with a wealth of experience in NZ and Australia, being based in Melbourne for 12 years. She has completed commissions for luxury lodges (Tara Iti), hospitality (Amisfield restaurant), and multiple residential projects throughout New Zealand. Ella’s design influences are drawn from the local context and environment. Her focus is on high quality natural materials and bespoke design touches.
- Just eight apartments, all with sea views
- 255sqm with 2.9m-high ceilings
- All are north facing, with either an east or west alignment
- Podium level apartments have wraparound outdoor terraces
- Levels 2 and 3 incorporate large, versatile winter garden
- Top floor penthouses have roof gardens and wraparound views
- Each apartment has a lock-up garage for at least four cars
- Completion in 2024
