Projects · 4 min read
By Sybelle Nakhle
A Taste of Italy in Auckland’s Karaka
Delahunty, a Tuscan-inspired villa at 17 Pararekau Road, Karaka.
At 17 Pararekau Road in Karaka, a Tuscan-inspired villa named Delahunty offers a rare sense of Old World romance. Sybelle Nakhle of Sybelle Design brought her considered eye to its interiors, layering art, craftsmanship and natural materials to honour the home’s Renaissance-inspired architecture.
An Arrival Defined by Tranquillity
Beyond the gated entry, the mood is immediately one of calm. Perfectly manicured lawns and gardens frame the villa, an elegant feature fountain draws the eye, and an in-ground heated pool brings a relaxed, family warmth to the outdoor spaces—equally suited to a summer soirée or quiet evenings under the stars.
Architecture and Craftsmanship
Delahunty is built in quality masonry, with high ceilings on both levels that lend a generous sense of volume. Though designed for entertaining, the home retains a warm, inviting character.
Art Chosen for Calm
Taking inspiration from the peace and privacy of the property, Sybelle selected contemporary artwork and handcrafted New Zealand pieces that complement the home’s existing colours and furnishings while allowing the architecture to remain the focus.
Mixed-media paintings by Auckland artist Amrit Kaur, from her Hidden In Plain Sight collection, echo the gentle colours of nature and the quiet beauty of the garden. Abstract works by Tim Jones add bold, blended movement in muted tones. Together, their palette of beige, blue, green and white sits beautifully against the creamy walls and wooden accents.
Furniture with Provenance
In collaboration with Lyzadie Renault of Lyzadie Design Studio, Sybelle curated timeless pieces from the Tui, Flow and Re-leathered collections. Crafted from rescued river matai, polished brass, blackened steel, leather and rimu, these New Zealand-made statement pieces bring a quiet luxury that suits the elegance of the villa.
Furnishings and accessories from Hawthorne Collections and Sybelle Design’s own collection complete the interiors. Artisan serving boards, hurricane lamps and layered cushions and throws in oatmeal, grey, copper, black and denim blue add warmth and texture throughout.
A Restful Hideaway
Conveniently positioned near local shops, the motorway and a private school, Delahunty still feels wonderfully removed from the everyday—a taste of Italy in an idyllic, restful hideaway.
Sybelle Design — Intentional Living.
