Christchurch. When the original city plan was drawn up Fitzgerald Avenue was considered rural land. When the city founders needed funds in 1851 more sections were sold off and 215 Fitzgerald Avenue became part of 'East Town Belt'. The sale of this property is recorded in the vast leather bound volumes stored at Land and Information as early as the 1870's. You can find people residing here on the 1878 Electoral Roll and by looking at the classic Villa architectural style of the house it must have been built around this time. The first recorded sale was in 1875 for 100 pounds. The property is rare because it has been constructed in brink and previous owners have plastered the walls highlighting the quoins and the deep window sills. Very little has been changed throughout its life because it is such a well built attractive home with spacious rooms. The original ceiling centres, cornices and plaster archway in the hall remain. The fireplaces with original mantelpieces are all in working order. Where possible the house had been restored or reconditioned items such as the ebony door handles, door locks, brass window pulls and catches found to replace them. Colour scheme and soft furnishing advice came from the Interior Designer Susan Busch. Interior and exterior painting was done by Wayne Ranger (President of the Master Painters Association) and his team. Joinery was made by Lyall Park (who makes kitchens for Ingrid Geldof). The Christchurch City Council had a rejuvenation project running for this part of our inner city. There is a wonderful community feel with the I.C.E. (Inner City East Neighbourhood Group Inc) newsletter updating neighbours monthly, this group and the Chester Street Residents group meet regularly.