Streamlined style

One of the most important aspects of new-home design is very subtle, yet extremely important.

That aspect? Never being satisfied that a tried-and-true design is too good to be modified. In other words, there’s no room for complacency in designing new homes.

That’s because, as a builder, you can be assured other builders won’t be resting on their laurels in the pursuit of becoming the best in the industry. With that in mind, Kensington Homes’ design team took a hard look at one of their most popular designs, the Oceanview.

It didn’t take long to figure out how it could be improved, says Lilita Klavins, new-home sales representative for Kensington’s new show home at 408 Desrosiers Dr. in Transcona’s Canterbury Crossing.

“While the foyer in the previous model worked well, they felt it could work even better,” she says. “So, they made two changes.”

The purpose of those tweaks was simple, says Klavins.

“They wanted to make the foyer more inviting. So, they widened it to make entry that much easier. An oversized transom window was then installed in the side wall to let in more natural light. When you step inside, it immediately feels very welcoming.”

As it turns out, the foyer is just a prelude to what is a very efficient and smartly elegant home.

Although it’s “only” 1,610 sq. ft. in size, it feels a good deal bigger than its listed square footage. That’s no accident, says Klavins.

“A lot of time and effort was put into the design of the home to make it as functional as it could possibly be for a big family,” she says. “There’s purpose in every square inch of its design. It starts in the foyer and runs through every level of the home.”

Take the main living area, for example. Instead of making it one big, open space, subtle design hacks were utilized to create a sense of segmentation — and style.

First, a streamlined bulkhead was run neatly along the ceiling right down the middle of the naturally bright, ultra-navigable area.

“From a visual standpoint, the taupe bulkhead looks fabulous. as it contrasts beautifully with the white ceiling and black pendant lights above the island. Having just a white ceiling would have looked good, but having the bulkhead there looks so much better,” Klavins says.

She says the second design hack is just as subtle — and slyly significant.

“A cutout wall between the dining area and living room is another great design feature,” Klavins says. “It separates the dining area from the living room, yet creates a wonderful sense of continuity while maintaining light flow and adding a sense of style.”

Meanwhile, fashion matches functionality in a quiet, understated way.

The island kitchen — which is anchored by an eight-foot island that seats sour — is a chef’s dream, offering plenty of room to create along with two-tone cabinets, a lovely tile backsplash, pantry and lots of handy pot drawers.

Then, there’s the great room.

“Another large window lets in more natural light, while the flooring and warm wooden railing and satin-bronze spindles on the staircase combine with the timeless taupe-and-white colour scheme to give the area a welcoming warmth,” Klavins says.

Efficient elegance is also the upper level’s calling card.

Not only are there three bedrooms, a laundry room and full bathroom, but there’s also a versatile flex space that was nestled neatly between the spacious main bath and oversized kids’ bedrooms.

“It’s a flex space that could be used as a play space, reading area or office,” Klavins says. “The primary bedroom is way over on the other side. It’s a big, bright retreat that comes with a lovely ensuite and large walk-in closet.”

Add in an amazing, light-filled walk-out lower level with side-entrance access, and you have one dynamic family home.

“I’d say it’s mission accomplished. It’s a warm, welcoming home that matches its good looks with an absolute ton of function,” concludes Klavins.

lewys@mymts.net

Details

Builder: Kensington Homes

Address: 408 Desrosiers Dr., Canterbury Crossing (Transcona)

Style: two-storey

Size: 1,610 sq. ft.

Model: the Oceanview

Bedrooms: three plus upper-level flex space

Bathrooms: two-and-a-half

Price: $719,900 (includes lot, upgrades, appliances & GST)

Contact: Lilita Klavins, Qualico Realty Services, 204-298-4707