With sweeping staircases and numerous balconies, Wayne and Helen's home has a decidedly European feel. Not a rustic old villa though - this is definitely more along the lines of a glamorous chateau or palazzo - it even has its own internal lift! Built in 2004, the spacious three-level home has four bedrooms, three bathrooms and several living areas. Surrounded by large native trees and bush, it's easy to forget that you're in the heart of busy Auckland.

The mostly earthy tones in the home's interior give it a warm and vibrant atmosphere. "Much of the furniture is made from native timbers, and natural colours predominate throughout the house," explains Wayne. "The exception are the bedrooms and offices, which have a dash of bold colour."

What first attracted you to this house? The location - the fact that here you are in Auckland city, within walking distance of Newmarket, but surrounded by trees. It also has two road entrances, which gives it uncommon accessibility in this location.

Which space do you get your greatest satisfaction from? The third level, where all the entertaining is done - it is very light and airy. The dining room is perfect for accommodating our eight-piece set of chairs and table, and it looks out onto rimu and kauri trees. 

What colours did you use? The outside of the house is painted with Resene Cumin, Resene Quarter Tea and Resene Double Parchment. Inside, the ceilings are Resene Wan White and most of the walls are Resene Bianca. The stair walls are Resene Makara. We've found that these colours are easy to live with and don't clash with art work hanging on the walls! The kitchen cabinets, lift walls and office are all Resene Mojo, which we chose because it is a warm colour that makes you feel nestled. The master bedroom is Resene Linen. The kids' bedroom is bright red Resene Monza which we chose because it is vibrant and cheery. The study is Resene Wasabi to complement the outside view of the flaxes and the puriri tree.

What are you planning to change next? Nothing - we are selling the house!

Sweeping staircases join the home's three levels, which are mostly painted in Resene Bianca, with Resene Wan White ceilings. The stair walls are Resene Makara.

On the top floor, a skylight above the stairs lets in extra light.

The kitchen cabinets are Resene Mojo, a rich burnt-orange that Wayne and Helen chose for its warmth.

The office is also painted in Resene Mojo, "because it makes you feel nestled."

The children's room has a bright red Resene Monza feature wall, a colour chosen because it is "vibrant and cheery".