Love at first sight

Admit it or not, but intuition — as subtle as the instinct can be — plays a big part in choosing the homes we live in.

That’s because when we enter a home, one of two things happens: we like the feel of it, or — for some hard-to-describe reason — we don’t.

Consequently, first impressions play a central role.

Fortunately, the Easton impresses the minute you step inside, says Lisa Castro, the sales representative for Broadview Homes’ new 2,135 sq. ft., two-storey show home at 273 Rangeview Way in Bison Run.

“The front of the home gets off to an outstanding start with a wide, inviting foyer,” she says. “And it just gets better from there.”

Take a few steps forward from the foyer and you’ll find yourself surrounded by family friendly function — in this case, multi-generational family function.

“The design of the area is amazing,” Castro says. “There’s a full bath to the left of the hallway, and a good-sized bedroom on the other side of the hallway. It was set back about three feet to create a wonderful feeling of privacy and separation. And there is also a side entrance for private access to the lower level if you put in an in-law suite.”

There’s another design feature that adds to the Easton’s appeal, as well: the flooring.

In just the right tone — neither too light nor too dark, and with a distressed look that adds texture and character — it works with the neutral colour scheme to draw you toward the main living area.

The flooring is a tasteful foundation to the open-concept space and an excellent counterpoint to the vibrant, modern finishes and the natural light that fills the area.

“Tons of natural light streams inside through an extra-wide sliding patio door behind the dining area and from floor-to-ceiling windows in the great room. The flooring colour was the perfect choice. Any lighter and it would be too bright. If it were much darker, it would absorb too much of the wonderful natural light.”

Meanwhile, the island kitchen immediately grabs your attention.

Exuding modern style that comes courtesy of white cabinets, white quartz countertops, a white island and a white tile backsplash, it looks clean, crisp and fresh.

Elegant stainless appliances, a stainless hood fan over the range and white pendant lights with silver chords and bases complete the contemporary look, while the mid-sized island adds utility.

“I love the dining area,” says Castro. “A cantilevered nook for a sideboard was painted grey to add contrast, while the mod chandelier ties in with the pendant lights in the kitchen. The extra-wide patio door lets in lots of natural light and connects to a big backyard deck.”

Then there’s the adjacent great room, a stunning space that impresses with its simple yet sophisticated design.

“It’s a gorgeous space.

“Thanks to a double-high ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows, it has a wonderful bright, airy feel. The raised grey feature wall ties in with the paint in the grey sideboard nook and holds a 74-inch linear electric fireplace and TV nook.”

Wander upstairs via a stately open staircase with tempered glass sides and rich-looking Thunder maple railing, and you’ll find a laundry room, two oversized secondary bedrooms, a full bath and, of course, the primary bedroom.

“Every space upstairs is a generous size, something that families will appreciate,” Castro says.

“That comes from the fact that the home is a bit over 2,100 sq. ft.

“Another feature that people have appreciated is the open-to-below design. The view down to the great room is amazing, with a large window over the fireplace letting in an extra bit of natural light.”

And while the two secondary bedrooms are impressively large, the 14-foot by 15-foot primary is the top level’s crown jewel, just as it should be.

“I think parents will appreciate its positioning. A short, angled hallway not only gives it a wonderful feeling of isolation but also looks down on the great room.

“It also has the amenities that parents are looking for — a spacious walk-in closet, and a luxurious ensuite with grey travertine tile floor, soaker tub set in the same tile, and a gorgeous tiled walk-in shower.”

Castro calls the Easton is the epitome of practical luxury.

“It’s a showstopper at every turn, but it’s also a very functional home that perfectly suits a large family.

“Every part of its design was well-thought-out, and it shows.”

lewys@mymts.net