Bought sight unseen on Mum's advice: Saying goodbye to a beloved beachfront home after 33 years

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Bought sight unseen on Mum's advice: Saying goodbye to a beloved beachfront home after 33 years

Bought sight unseen on his mother's recommendation, Richard Wilkie reflects as he says goodbye to his coastal home.

Alan Granville
Last updated: 3 July 2026 | 3 min read
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After 33 years, a historic 1907 Edwardian villa on Sumner Esplanade is for sale. Originally a holiday home for Charles Morris of Quill Morris, the property was extensively renovated to a high standard post-earthquake.

The rebuild, designed by architect Alun Wilkie, included:

- Re-piling and full insulation

- A contemporary rear extension

- A painstakingly restored Marseille tile roof

Now downsizing, the owners are selling this unique piece of Christchurch history, located at 122 Esplanade.

The floor area is 291m².

Original features remain.

Beach views.

There are five bedrooms.

Pop of colour in the kitchen

The extension won architectural and Master Builder awards.

The basement cellar.

Plenty of outdoor decking.

Author

Alan Granville Alan Granville
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