Orr House: A Hidden Treasure of History and Elegance in the Heart of Lower Hut

Step off the bustling streets of Lower Hutt and into another world. Nestled in the quiet beauty of Kings Crescent lies Orr House, a historic Italianate villa that feels like it’s been plucked from the pages of a romantic novel. Rich in history and overflowing with charm, this elegant residence is a true hidden treasure among the venues of Wellington.

Built between 1885 and 1887 for Robert Orr, a man who once cultivated flourishing gardens across the surrounding 17 acres, the house has been lovingly preserved for over a century. Crafted from native timbers, its architectural features reflect the graceful style of Northern Italy: perfectly symmetrical lines, bay windows that welcome the light, and a grand entrance framed by ornate columns.

As you step through the front door, the air seems to hold stories. Some furnishings are original, whispering memories of a different time. Every room invites you to slow down. To look closely. To let the soft light guide your eye from the curved archways to the wooden floorboards worn with age. This is a place to be savoured, a heritage site to experience, to admire, to truly see with your eyes and feel with your heart.

And then, there is the garden. Tucked behind the villa lies a lush cottage-style garden that feels as though it were created for poetry and celebration. It blooms with possibility. Imagine a summer ceremony under the trees, with the golden light filtering through the leaves, or an intimate candlelit dinner nestled among fragrant blooms and antique stone paths.

This garden is more than just a backdrop. It is an atmosphere. One of serenity, natural beauty and quiet enchantment. Picture a long table set beneath the starry New Zealand sky, the soft glow of candles illuminating faces full of joy. In the background, gentle choral music drifts through the air, blending with the sound of laughter and conversation, and the delicate chime of glasses raised in a toast. The scent of fresh flowers lingers, carried by the breeze, as smiles are exchanged and embraces shared. Every moment in this garden feels suspended in time, like a memory already in the making, wrapped in beauty and warmth.

Orr House is a space where past and present meet and where the pace slows just enough to let the beauty settle into your soul. Just minutes from central Wellington, this villa offers a world apart, a setting that feels like it was made for love stories, for music echoing through the trees, and for timeless photographs that capture more than just a day.

As an Italian wedding and event planner in New Zealand, I specialise in discovering and curating unique spaces like this. With a deep love for heritage and design, I can guide you through every detail, helping you imagine and create an event that feels personal, meaningful, and unforgettable.

Let me help you plan your next celebration and uncover some of the most exquisite hidden gems Wellington has to offer. From elegant villas to secret gardens, I’ll take you on a journey through spaces where beauty and history come together in perfect harmony.