What was that long renovation on Dryden Street all about?
When Steve Ingram bought 58 Dryden Street, a run-down 1970s bungalow directly opposite Grey Lynn Park, he had a vision - to transform the property into a stylish, spacious and purpose-built home that could comfortably accommodate travelling groups and families for short and long term stays.
“I wanted to provide unique accommodation facilities where people travelling in groups for work or leisure could have their own bedroom and bathroom rather than twin-sharing, then come together in elegant but relaxed communal living areas to talk and entertain.”
On his long-standing connection to the neighbourhood, Steve said, “I’ve lived around Ponsonby on and off for a good 20 years and I love the character of the houses, the mature tree growth and all the great places to eat and meet up with friends.”
It was this sense of community that inspired the naming and identity of Steve’s new business venture. ‘The Village Reserve’ was conceived against themes of locality, urban communality and leafy city-fringe streets.
Of the property’s extensive renovations, Steve commented, “Admittedly, it did take a little longer than I hoped! We completely gutted the place and it’s a brand new house now. Every corner has been updated. We stripped back the 100 year-old cedar weatherboards and found that they were in surprisingly good shape!
“The first floor of The Village Reserve has four separate bedrooms, all with ensuites, a stylish kitchen, and indoor and outdoor living and entertaining areas. Upstairs offers five boutique bedrooms with ensuites, a modern kitchen, gorgeous fresh living areas, and a sweeping balcony with green views over the park. The innovative architectural design of the property means that the two floors can be completely separate and private or work as one.”
Private parking for each floor and secure gate access is another huge advantage for groups and families staying at The Village Reserve.
“Regardless of whether guests are staying for a week, four weeks, or half a year, all they need to bring is a suitcase to feel at home.”
For more information or to book call T: 029 376 6445, www.villagereserve.co.nz,
E: info@villagereserve.co.nz