Open house pick of the week: Waikiki

September 7, 2012

Melissa Chang,

It’s rare to find a unit of this size, much less a penthouse, for sale in the heart of Waikiki, and this one even has three parking stalls, which is almost unheard of. Hawaii businessman and benefactor Harry Weinberg and his wife Jeanette owned the unit from 1982 to1988, which gives it an extra bit of cache. (Click here for details.)

The Leisure Heritage condo only has five units available, all fee simple, which is another rarity in a building of mixed leasehold/fee simple units. The building offers a secure, locked lobby, central air and a recreation/pool area; however, pets are not allowed.

This two-story penthouse, which was remodeled earlier this year, has three bedrooms and 2.5 baths in 1,756 square feet of living area. The open, 171-square-foot lanai enables you to take in the panoramic mountain, golf course and Ala Wai views. Actually, as you enter the foyer, you can already see the amazing views through the floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors, and can enjoy it from every room.

Hand-painted, faux-finished, textured walls by artist Patti Bruce are featured in the entry foyer, living room, dining room and kitchen.

The kitchen features brand-new stainless-steel appliances along with custom-made whitewashed oak cabinets, granite counters and limestone flooring. The adjacent dining room is appointed with a built-in buffet, again with whitewashed oak cabinetry and granite counters. Above the buffet are custom-made glass shelves with mirrored back walls and down-lighting.

The enormous master bedroom is on the upper level, featuring a huge 8-by-14-foot closet designed by Closet Systems. A separate utility room with whitewashed oak cabinets, limestone floors and granite counters is also upstairs, and gives you private access to the rooftop deck—perfect for watching the sunset.

The penthouse will be open from 2 to 5 p.m. this Sunday. Happy house hunting!