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The iconic Brake house in Titirangi, owned by Prime News host Eric Young and his wife Michelle, has been sold at auction.
Wall Real Estate’s Ollie Wall says the stunning mid-century modern home, designed by architect Ron Sang for Magnum photographer Brian Brake in the 1970s, fetched “well over $ 4 million.”
“We got a handful of bids,” Wall says. “And he sold it to a family that we had been working with from the beginning of the process. It was a bit unorthodox, but we actually introduced them to the owners because they had a lot in common. They really enjoyed each other’s stories and each other’s company, and Eric and Michelle are very happy. [with the result]. “
SIMON DEVITT
The tatami room, designed for Brake, reflects his love for Asia, where he worked on many photographic assignments.
Wall still says it is one of the most amazing houses he’s ever been in: “I feel energized just being there. And I’ve been so lucky to meet the most amazing people throughout the entire process – the people drawn to the house are inherently quite interesting. We’ve had a lot of architects and other creative and successful people come forward. “
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The house has a Category 1 list of historic sites. When on the list, Eric Young told Stuff, “We have a saying, you never have a bad day when you come home to Brake House. You leave all your troubles at the top of the road. It’s incredibly therapeutic: a Zen house in the rainforest with a view. And there are many ways to enjoy it. “
SIMON DEVITT
A large cantilevered platform with a single support post projects into the view of the city beyond.
Sang himself has said: “Without a doubt, it is one of the best houses that I have done. That opened a lot of doors for me. “
But Young believes that the house is much more than that: “This is his masterpiece, an expression of his art.”
Michelle Young, a lawyer and gallery owner, said that living in a place that is a work of art in itself has a direct impact on daily life. “I firmly believe that art and the warmth and beauty of craftsmanship can elevate your life experience. We are surrounded by beauty and nature, and that is very inspiring.
SIMON DEVITT
The living areas are defined by beautiful wood ceilings and floors and full height glazing along the north side of the pavilion.
SIMON DEVITT
There is a strong connection to nature on both sides of the house.
During their seven years in the house, the Youngs updated the kitchen, after consulting with Sang and Nat Cheshire of Cheshire Architects. “With everything we do, the first call is to Ron for permission and advice,” Eric said. “Ron’s fingerprints, but also his heart, are all over the house.”
The couple said the existing kitchen was getting tired and there was an opportunity to bring that part of the house back to something more in keeping with the style of the mid-century home.
The house consists of a series of glass pavilions linked into two distinct parts: one end for sleeping and the other for entertaining. Most are only one room wide, ensuring light and views are maximized.
SIMON DEVITT
The Youngs updated the kitchen to better match the style of the rest of the home, after first consulting with original architect Ron Sang.
And the house retains the original study and darkroom designed for Brake. “There are three rooms on the ground floor that he used,” Michelle said. “And they all have light boxes in custom cabinets.”
Brian Brake became a Magnum photographer in 1955. Particular projects of interest include his 1955 photographs of Pablo Picasso at a bullfight, 1959 coverage of China (where he was allowed an unusual level of access), and his Monsoon series of photographs taken in India during 1960. These photographs were published internationally in magazines such as Life, Queen and Paris Match. He received an OBE for photography services in 1981.
SIMON DEVITT
A bridge walkway leads to the main entrance.
The house is still used for fashion and design photo shoots, and for filming music videos.
The Youngs said the only reason they put the house on the market was because they now have a baby and the house is not toddler-proof.
“It’s not a joyous feeling to have to leave, but then we look at Alfie and everything changes,” Eric Young said. Stuff.
