Best of both worlds

When people think of an area such as Anola, two thoughts tend to pop into their mind. First, they think it’s an awful long way from the city. Second, they tend to think homes for sale in the area are older and rather basic.

Those two perceptions are in fact misconceptions, said RE/MAX Professionals’ Viktoria Fazekas. "Actually, you’re quite close to the city — it’s not a long drive at all," she said, noting the home is roughly 20 minutes from the Perimeter Highway and 30-40 minutes to many key areas of the city. "Not only that, but it’s an easy, stress-free drive. The easy commute is a very pleasant surprise."

Another pleasant surprise is the home you find at the end of the rather effortless Winnipeg-to-Anola sojourn: a 2,966 square foot two-storey built to exacting standards in 2010. "Not only is it a newer home, but its construction quality is exceptional," said Fazekas’ sales partner, Michael Dubienski. "It features quiet, energy-efficient ICF (insulated concrete form) construction from top to bottom, plus a structural wood floor. It’s a beautiful — and solid — home in every respect."

Situated on a treed five-acre lot, 35035 Mission Rd. is the definition of country cool. On the one hand, you’re surrounded by a wealth of natural beauty. One the other, you have a thoroughly modern home that offers every creature comfort you’d find in a cutting-edge city abode. "This home has everything you might want or need," added Dubienski. "There’s tons of space, light and style inside, and when you’re outside in the backyard, you feel like you’re on vacation in the country. It’s an amazing home in an amazing location."

Inside the home, finishes are rich and warm. Luxurious (and pristine) Brazilian cherry hardwoods run through the entire great room (kitchen, dining area and living) room, while other finishing materials — granite, tile and cappuccino ash cabinetry — combine to create an inviting, relaxing interior ambience. As it should, the highly functional great room invites you to sit down and stay awhile. "Its hub is the amazing eat-in kitchen, which features a 10-foot island with induction cooktop and double sink," said Fazekas. "There’s all kinds of room to move and create, there’s tons of (cappuccino-stained) ash cabinets, plenty of counter space (elegant taupe granite countertops), and a dining area for six next to the kitchen. It’s an area that’s ideal for entertaining or family life."

Then, there’s the 13.8-foot by 20-foot living room, which qualifies as a very cozy — and visitor-friendly — spot. "It features a gorgeous wood-burning fireplace with grey slate surround, ash mantel and ash entertainment/display unit – plus a firewood storage niche (with ash doors) right next to the fireplace," Dubienski said. "It’s just a beautiful area with the ash woodwork, Brazilian cherry hardwoods and staircase with ash railing and cherry wood steps next to it."

Not to be overlooked is a space off the rear of the kitchen, said Fazekas. "The outgoing owners added a 20-foot by 16-foot, four-season sunroom with heated floor and 12 windows (plus patio door) that gives you the feeling that you’re sitting right in the middle of nature when you’re in it. It’s ideal for entertaining or relaxing with a drink or good book."

Head out the patio door, and you enter the backyard, which, in a word, is simply spectacular. "There’s a multi-level, illuminated cedar deck with barbeque area, sitting/hot tub area, plus a Barkman patio below with a sitting area and amazing wood burning fireplace," added Dubienski. "It’s an area where you can relax in privacy surrounded by the beauty of the landscaped grounds and mature forest."

Fazekas said the main floor contains yet another unique feature. "You don’t see many homes with circular stairways that take you down to the basement, but this home has one," she said. "It leads down to a wine cellar, wine-making room, fitness area and massive workshop. The ICF walls and structural wood floor makes for a quiet, warm basement."

Meanwhile, the home’s upper level isn’t lacking in accoutrements. The first feature that hits you is its catwalk, said Fazekas. "It’s just so unique. Not only does it overlook the gorgeous living room, but it leads to a display area with huge arched window behind that allows all kinds of natural light to flow throughout the second floor."

Four spaces occupy the second floor: two oversized secondary bedrooms (including one with a walk-in closet), an opulent (and huge) four-piece bath with taupe tile floor, ash vanity and soaker tub set in an off-white/taupe tile surround — and massive bonus room with Brazilian cherry hardwoods, huge picture window and vaulted ceiling.

"Right now, it’s broken up into a media area, office area and music area," said Dubienski, adding it also houses a big walk-in closet. "It’s an area that could be used for anything — it’s a very versatile space."

Add in a luxurious main-floor master suite with spa-like ensuite and pristine, landscaped front-yard view, and you have a well-balanced home that’s chock full of outstanding features, said Fazekas. "It’s a great opportunity for families or empty nesters to live in a like-new home in a private location that’s an easy commute to the city. It’s a beautiful functional home that offers the best of both worlds."

lewys@mymts.net