LIVING THE FAIRY TALE

An abandoned cottage in Dunedin was this family’s dream come true

- Debbie Harrison

When people recount their first impression of the do-up they’ve bought, it often involves a wrinkled nose and distasteful expression. It’s usually only through their exceptional visualisation skills and positive mindset that they can see the potential. That was not the case for Bella O’Mahony and husband Rory, however. Where others might have discounted the Dunedin abode in its ramshackle state, all Bella saw was perfection.

“It was this adorable, abandoned fairytale cottage of my wildest dreams. This long, magical path led to a secret hideaway in the middle of central Dunedin and I fell head over heels,” Bella laughs. “It felt like a cottage from another time and place; something I didn’t know could be found in New Zealand. Sure, there was a lot of work needed, which might have put others off, but I would’ve happily lived in it as it fell down around me because I’m a very impractical, hopeless romantic. Luckily I have an extremely practical and sensible husband who wouldn’t allow that to happen.”

The cottage certainly had its share of fairytale details, with beautiful leadlights, a full library, patterned wallpaper and matching curtains, and a gorgeous wooden staircase with a wee landing at the top – all of which had Bella swooning.

“Most friends on their first visit say things like ‘of course this is your house; it just makes sense.’ I don’t know what to make of that. We get a lot of Hansel and Gretel comments and everyone wants to know about its history,” Bella says.