Wonderful Wellington

One of the most indelible images of Wellington Crescent is of the stately, early 20th-century homes lining the street amid stands of mature trees.

However, while those River Heights North classics garner attention for their distinctive designs, some of them can be quite dated inside. But that’s not an issue with the 1,565 sq. ft., two-storey home found at 1324 Wellington between Lindsay and Borebank streets, says Nicola Guttormson of RE/MAX Executives Realty.

“This home was actually built in 1986 and has been well maintained from the original design,” she says. “It’s an architectural treasure that was designed by some of Winnipeg’s most prominent architects, including Les Stechesen. As soon as you step onto the walkway that leads up to the home, you feel a serene energy.”

Indeed, there’s a certain magical energy that seems to radiate from the long, deep lot.

Walking up to the elegant residence, you can’t help but appreciate how it’s framed so beautifully by the mature trees that surround it, sunlight filtering lazily through the leaves.

Then, you step inside.

“This is a home that inspires you the moment you walk in,” Guttormson says. “At one point, the home, which was featured in Western Living Magazine, was described as an art gallery that happened to have bedrooms. That was an accurate description, as the home perfectly blends sophistication and style.”

Every design detail in the well-maintained home works together. Take the living room, for example. A beautifully illuminated art display niche greets you as you enter the cosy, inviting space. At the same time, a wood-burning fireplace on the right-hand wall lends a modern-rustic touch with its wrought iron mantel.

Guttormson says the huge bay window on the living room’s front wall adds another dimension.

“It’s one of many windows in the home that fill the home with natural light. In this case, it also provides a breathtaking view of Wellington Crescent through the tree-lined front yard of all the heritage homes across the way, as well as all the beautiful, mature trees. Every window in the home frames your own personal view of Wellington, evoking a feeling of majesty and serenity.”

Head back to the kitchen and that feeling of being surrounded by style and beauty persists. For Guttormson, the kitchen is a joy to behold.

“I love it. It’s a well-planned space with plenty of room to move and create — plus modern finishes like white cabinets, stone countertops, a lovely tile backsplash and stainless appliances. There’s also a huge window over the sink that looks out on to all the mature trees, and a concealed bar around the corner.”

The spacious dining area (which is subtly defined by a mod chandelier) is between the kitchen and a patio door that leads out to a picturesque backyard.

“When you step outside, you find a two-tiered deck that’s perfect for al fresco dining and entertaining. It’s also surrounded by manicured gardens and mature trees that add character, shade and a bit of privacy,” Guttormson says.

Take a glass-sided staircase upstairs, and you’ll find a library area, large second bedroom and a well-isolated primary bedroom that is a genuine oasis of tranquility.

“It’s a true retreat that offers a vaulted ceiling, gorgeous tree views, a cosy gas fireplace and electronic blinds that can be closed to help you get a restful sleep,” says Guttormson. “There’s also a stunning, spa-inspired bathroom with a freestanding Acritec jetted tub, elegant walk-in shower, marble-style tile floor and a grey vanity with stone countertop and his/her sinks.”

Finally, there’s the fully finished lower level, which offers 840 sq. ft. of livable space.

“There’s a large, cosy space next to the bottom portion of the bay window upstairs that can be used as a media area where the family can gather for movie night. A third bedroom and three-piece bath finish it off perfectly, she says.

Guttormson says the home is a great alternative to many of River Heights’ new infill houses.

“More thought has been put into its design, and its combination of style, light, beauty and location makes it a special home that checks every box.”

lewys@mymts.net