Forest refuge

About 10 years ago, a discerning family was looking to build an expansive bungalow in the city.

At 2,200 sq. ft., it would require an exceptionally wide, deep lot — the type of lot that’s a rare find within city confines.

However, after an extensive search, the family found a lot on a well-treed tract of land off Laxdal Road that a limited number of luxury-style homes were to be built on.

Knowing that time was of the essence, they acted quickly, choosing the largest lot, which — as it so happened — was also populated by an extensive number of mature trees.

“The idea was that the lot, with its size and all the trees, would basically create a castle in the forest,” says Alan Reiss of Re/Max Professionals. “The owners wanted a home that was very private, in addition to being large and luxurious.”

That luxury immediately comes to the forefront the moment you step inside, he adds.

“One of the first things you notice is the flooring. It leads you right into the main living area.”

Turns out, the flooring is a painstakingly curated wide plank engineered walnut. With its native warmth and wonderful colour variations, it effortlessly draws you into the space.

And what a captivating main living area it is.

A dramatic vaulted ceiling lined with pot lights adds a sense of space and style, while espresso-stained oak cabinets and off-white quartz countertops in the kitchen add texture and contrast.

Meanwhile, a one-third wall with quartz capping deftly defines the kitchen and dinette area from the great room, creating a sense of definition without disrupting flow.

“I love the kitchen,” Reiss says. “The finishes are gorgeous, there’s plenty of room for one or two people to cook while entertaining, and if you’re entertaining, you can seat the kids at the nine-foot island, and at the dinette table.”

The food can then be enjoyed in a well-defined formal dining room.

“There’s space to seat anywhere from six to 10 guests, and there’s also a wide sideboard behind the table with bar fridge that you can serve from. It’s a very elegant, functional space.”

Finally, there’s the great room, which finishes off the main living area in practical style.

“It can be accessed from either side, and is anchored beautifully by a gas fireplace with a stunning entertainment unit that runs to the top of the vaulted ceiling between a pair of huge windows,” he says. “And there’s lots of room for furniture.”

Reiss notes that the home’s thoughtful layout encompasses more than just the main living area.

“The home features a split layout, which has two bedrooms placed up front to the left with a four-piece bath in the middle. The lower-level stairwell, which is across the way and to the right of the foyer, opens the area up nicely.”

To maximize privacy, the primary bedroom was then tucked away behind the great room on the far left-hand side of the masterfully crafted home.

“If you want a primary bedroom that has an isolated feel, this one would be it,” Reiss says. “You’re in your own private world as soon as you step inside. The bedroom is warm and inviting with a beautiful view of the trees in the backyard, and comes with a big walk-in closet and a three-piece ensuite with a heated tile floor and gorgeous, tiled walk-in shower.”

Head downstairs, and you find a massive lower level that’s the product of the home’s oversized footprint.

“With 2,200 sq. ft. of livable space upstairs, there’s over 2,000 sq. ft. of livable space downstairs,” he says. “The home was built on piles with a wood structural floor, which makes for a much warmer basement. It also allows for easy access below should any work or repairs need to be done.”

As with the main floor, the layout of the home’s lower level is impressive.

It starts off with a games area, which leads directly to a spacious media area. A flex space to the right of the media area could be used as a workout studio, while the area to the left has another games area with a wet bar and flex area to its rear.

“There’s also two more huge bedrooms and a four-piece bath plus ample storage space. With the lower level, the home offers more than 4,200 sq. ft. of total living space.”

The beautifully built and designed bungalow is a rare find, says Reiss.

“Situated on a huge, well-treed lot on a quiet cul-de-sac, it’s an oasis of tranquility. It’s been meticulously maintained, and all the finishes are high-end. Families will love having five bedrooms, not to mention its location, which is close to schools, community centres, shopping, transit and a host of other amenities.”

lewys@mymts.net