High on the ridgeline of Parnell, overlooking the Waitematā Harbour, something quietly spectacular is taking shape.
York House isn’t just another luxury development – it’s a personal project, handcrafted with conviction, collaboration, and a deep respect for craft, for material, and for the site.
At the heart of the vision is architectural firm Monk Mackenzie, who speak of the project with reverence of a master chef describing a signature dish. “With many of our projects, we strive to find a distilled, poetic approach,” Hamish Monk tells Verve. “We didn’t want this to be another glass box with flush balconies. We wanted something tailored, grounded, grittier, more tactile. Something that would age with grace. Something that belongs here.”
York House brings the vision to life – a modernist landmark in the making, featuring 44 refined residences wrapped in a curving façade of bespoke, pleated concrete. Inspired by Parnell’s volcanic terrain and rich textile history, the building’s sculptural form reflects a thoughtful interplay of art and architecture. “This isn’t about superimposing an architectural typology”, says Monk, “but rather being influenced by other forms of art, bringing an element of cross-pollination. Embracing the makers and their craft – the curvature of the building is a perfect example as it was, in part, influenced by textiles and fabrics and how they drape with the pleat of a curtain”.
Inside, the homes are equally considered. Rounded interior moments echo the building’s exterior curvature, while elevated gardens and generous balconies blur the line between private sanctuary and public realm. “Because this is a relatively large site,” Monk explains, “we’ve been able to create a buffer between the residences and the street, offering a rare sense of privacy in such a central location.”
The interiors, designed by Amelia Holmes, are tailored to perfection. Every detail, every junction, every finish has been carefully resolved. “We’ve worked with some of the project consultants and contractors for over a decade,” Monk says. “They know the materials and how far they can be pushed. That’s where the magic happens.” That magic extends beyond the architecture. York House is about lifestyle – elevated, but never ostentatious. Instead of a generic gym or pool, residents will enjoy a communal wine room with tasting tables and temperature-controlled lockers. Each penthouse also includes a full-height wine fridge. “We figured if you want a good gym, there is a varied choice nearby,” Monk says. “But as for a proper wine room? That’s something special.”
Maria Salmon, Residential Sales Manager at premium real estate developer, Precinct Properties, shares Hamish’s passion; “The project is about creating homes, not just apartments. There’s elegance in the details – the way the materials meet, the softness of the lighting. It’s beautiful, but it’s also personal.”
While the penthouses approach the $10 million mark, one-bedroom residences start at $1.240 million, each with a car park and storage included. “We’ve got buyers who travel, who have boats, who want something lock-and-leave but still deeply considered,” Maria adds. Construction is well underway, with completion expected in late 2026, a time when few other premium projects are anticipated to be available. Juliet Lichtenstein, Residential Project Associate Director at Colliers, notes that York House will appeal to those seeking refined luxury in one of Auckland’s premier locations. “It offers a premium lifestyle – both through
its boutique design and exceptional setting”, she says. Colliers is proud to partner with Precinct and Icon Developments to bring York House to market.
Come and experience the textures, the light, the craftsmanship. See why York House is already being called a future icon of Parnell.
The York House Display Suite is the perfect location to see the vision. It is an immersive preview of what’s to come. The display suite is open on Thursday to Sunday, 11:00am – 12:30pm, or by private appointment.
