Ask any builder, and they’ll tell you that building a luxury home is an exercise in maintaining discipline.
The reason for the need to stay on the straight and narrow is simple: if they give into the desire to create a home that contains an endless amount of wow factor, they stand to sacrifice livability.
Hence, a luxury home must not only be stylish, but practical if it is to appeal to prospective buyers.
Photos by Todd Lewys / Winnipeg Free Press A sharp exterior provides a preview of the practical luxury that awaits in this two-storey masterpiece.
Phil Amero of Royal LePage Prime Real Estate says that Artista Homes’ splendid show home at 20 Clerihew Cres. in Oak Bluff West balances those two essential elements exceptionally well.
“Both flair and function are in abundance in this amazing home,” he says. “The key is that they’re so beautifully integrated. Artista’s design team started with an incredibly functional floor plan and then built style into it.”
That practical yet creative design approach is evident at the front of the home.
A wide foyer provides unfettered access, while a wing to the left of the generous entrance holds a gorgeous powder room.
Then, there’s a room doorway on the right-hand wall just a few paces from the foyer.
Todd Lewys / Winnipeg Free Press The island kitchen in this Oak Bluff West home is a chef’s dream with all its space, function and attractive finishes.
“It leads into a mudroom and laundry room,” notes Amero. “This is where most families will be entering the home from, so a large mudroom with a bench with large storage lockers on either side is right off the garage. The laundry room was placed to the right in its own separate area.”
The home’s practical side established, Artista’s design team then set about establishing some wow factor.
It comes in the form of a striking space that occupies the left-hand side of the bright, open-concept main living area.
“With its double-high ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows on the rear wall, the family room immediately grabs your attention,” he says. “Add in a 100-inch linear electric fireplace set in a simple white feature wall and an open staircase that’s bordered by tempered glass with black railing and trim, and you have a gorgeous yet practical space that’s perfect for entertaining.”
The theme of quiet elegance continues in the adjacent kitchen, which is the epitome in modern function.
The family room is a bright and spectacular space.
“It has a subtle elegance to it with its matte grey quartz countertops and light grey and forest green accent cabinetry above the range, plus a textured white tile backsplash. There’s a large pantry plus an extra counter space next to a patio door that leads to a large backyard patio. It can be used as a serving area or as a coffee bar.”
Amero adds that there’s another space down the hall from the handy serving area.
“It’s a main floor den,” he says. “It has two windows that overlook the backyard, and is a great, private spot to do work in.”
Ascend to the home’s second level via the smashing open riser staircase, and you find more logical luxury, starting with a generous, light-filled space to the right of the stairs.
“Right now, it’s serving as a loft, but it could easily be converted into a fourth bedroom,” says Amero. “It all depends on what your family’s needs are.”
The primary bedroom is sensationally secluded.
If those needs involve having two large bedrooms for teenagers to ensconce themselves in, consider that box checked, adds Amero.
“Both bedrooms are a very good size. There’s plenty of room for young children to grow into as they get older. Closet space is good, and large windows let in lots of natural light. They’re also just steps away from a beautifully finished four-piece bath.”
Finally, there’s the primary bedroom, which was placed in its own secluded spot to the left of the stairs.
“The moment you step into it, you start to relax,” he says. “It’s spacious, naturally bright, and warm all at the same time. Parents will love the fact that it’s so set apart from the kids’ bedrooms. Then, when you step into the ensuite, you’re in your own gorgeous, spa-like world.”
Factor in a lower level that adds about 1,100 sq. ft. of livable space, and you have over 3,300 sq. ft, of total livable space to enjoy, says Amero.
The ensuite features a porcelain tile floor and gorgeous soaker tub.
“This home’s combination of flair and function is incredible. It’s an amazing home in every way.”
The spacious loft could also be turned into a fourth bedroom.
