In the grand manner
Introducing a spectacular ‘70s house that still knows how to party.
By Katherine Robinson. Photos by Sharisse Eberlein.
You can tell The Lodge @540 on the outskirts on Masterton was always a party house. If the generous kitchen, huge billiard room, even vaster living and dining room don’t give that away, then the stiletto marks on the parquet floor from many tapping feet beside the grand piano certainly do. The tell-tale little dents date from when Breadcraft founder Bob Cockburn held some of his legendary parties here.
Now owned by hairdresser Cathy Davys and builder husband, Ron, the house continues to be a hub for visitors. Part English country manor, part ‘70s rock star pad, the generously proportioned house allows the couple to enjoy it as their home, yet share it with friends and family, guests and clients. “The house was built to be shared with others,” says Cathy.
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Cathy and Ron say they picked up on the house’s happy vibe the moment they walked through the door over two years ago. “We had bought a new house in Carterton the year before, and weren’t really expecting to buy. But it felt like the house spoke to us. It was put up for tender, and to our surprise, our bid was accepted.”
Mindful of its heritage, the couple embarked upon renovations true to the character of the house. They’ve channelled the ultra-cool, luxurious side of the ‘70s – warm wood, high beamed ceilings and lush wallpaper. It’s all so glamorous that if you saw Bianca Jagger lounging poolside you wouldn’t be surprised.
New clients at Cathy’s bespoke hairdressing business The 540 Salon must feel like they are being let in on a secret. They can relax while overlooking both the swimming pool and extensive grounds. And there’s enough space for Cathy, current holder of a national award for her work in training hairdressers, to hold seminars here as well.
The spacious home includes The Coach House, a romantic two-storey retreat complete with four-poster bed, that Cathy runs as a homestay.
Cathy, who loves hosting events, has plans to open up the house and garden as a venue for small weddings and other family celebrations.
“It is the perfect place for a beautiful boutique wedding. It could be elegant or casual, indoor or outdoor. There is plenty of room on the front lawn for a marquee, or inside the house we can seat 60 to 70 in the dining room. And there is a sheltered area for a wedding ceremony, even a wedding walk.
“We can offer everything from a full service – planning and styling the wedding, booking caterers to hairstyling and make-up. Alternatively, the bride and groom can choose their own planner, caterer or hairdresser. We’d want to be flexible.
“We know people who would like to book our place want somewhere that feels like a home. This house has a sense of personality and history that people are drawn to.”
For details and to book: www.the540lodge.com
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