Capolavoro DI Chapman Taylor In Riva Al Mare

Built in 1923 for jeweller and silversmith Reuben Watts, Rewhiti is an award winning, category 1 listed house and one of Auckland’s rare surviving Chapman Taylor residences, a remarkable example of Arts and Crafts architecture. Meticulously restored, renovated and updated in consultation with heritage experts, the home stands today as an award winning category 1 listed house and a very charming and liveable family home.

The romance of the original home remains beautifully intact. The striking inglenook fireplace continues to anchor the formal lounge, while the original kitchen, coal range, (and now with a modern Aga), jarrah floors, adzed wood and a stunning hand painted mural in the master bedroom have all been restored and preserved as a tribute to Rewhiti’s remarkable past.

A striking contemporary pavilion designed by heritage architect Peter Were introduces expansive family living centred around a spectacular La Cornue range and stone island, seamlessly connecting to covered outdoor living and entertaining spaces centred around a large open fire. Enchanting English-inspired gardens designed by Xanthe White who drew inspiration from the original internal mural include flowers, vegetables, herbs, espaliered fruits, dotted with the perfect spots to linger, sit or dine. Practical considerations such as modern wiring and plumbing are all immersed and hidden in the renovation plus you have the bonus of internal access garaging and a custom designed boat garage with high stud and mezzanine providing ample storage, gym and workshop in addition to generous flat off-street parking.

Positioned on a sun-filled corner site opposite direct Takapuna Beach access and just a short stroll from Takapuna’s vibrant township, Rewhiti offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to own a significant piece of Auckland’s architectural heritage - beautifully reimagined for modern living.

Rewhiti is more than an exceptional home; it is the careful preservation of an architectural treasure, thoughtfully adapted for modern family life while honouring Chapman Taylor’s original vision for generations to come.