Let there be light

There’s an interesting phenomenon associated with homes built in the early ’80s.

It seems that such homes fall into one of two categories: dated, or partially remodelled. Consequently, prospective homebuyers must be aware they may need to spend extra money on bringing a 30-plus-year-old home up to contemporary standards.

However, there are some homes that have been thoroughly remodelled by their longtime owners.

One of those rare gems is a 38-year-old two-storey abode found at 67 Allendale Dr. in Richmond West, Jennifer Queen of Re/Max Professionals says.

"This beautiful home has been completely remodelled by its long-term owner," she says of the 1,800-sq.-ft. residence, which comes complete with backyard deck and finished basement. "The renovations were well planned out, and were done with a family in mind."

The first thing that strikes you about the home is how open its main floor is.

"One of the primary goals of the remodel was to update the home’s floor plan. The main living area was opened up so that the dining room opened directly not only to the living room, but to the kitchen as well," Queen says. "The kitchen also opens up directly on to the sunken family room, making for a modern, open feel."

Opening up the main living area was a two-pronged stroke of genius. First, flow from space to space was improved exponentially. Second, light flow was greatly enhanced.

"The home’s interior is now characterized by an abundance of natural light, which was a by-product of opening it up," she says. "Loads of daylight streams in from a huge bay window on the living room’s front wall, plus two windows behind the dining room, a big window over the kitchen sink and sliding doors off the family room."

At the same time, a rich combination of finishing materials endow the main living area with an inviting ambience: barnwood-style laminate plank flooring, butcher block countertops, a butcher block island, off-white cabinets and a light taupe tile backsplash. Newer stainless steel appliances add further to the modern, yet warm feel.

"The four spaces in the main living area are amazing," Queen says. "There’s room for two sofas in the living room, and the dining room is defined by a gorgeous chandelier. The kitchen features a deep farm sink, pantry and eating nook for two, while the sunken family room offers patio doors to the backyard deck and a wood burning fireplace."

She adds that the main floor also offers another contemporary feature.

"There’s a wing off the foyer with tile floor that holds a powder room and a door to the attached double garage. A doorway on the left also provides direct access to the living room."

Not surprisingly, the home’s upper level is as modern as its main floor.

There’s two good-sized secondary bedrooms with double closets and large windows, a remodelled main bath with tile floor and soaker tub — and a thoroughly contemporary master bedroom.

"It’s a true retreat that comes with a bay window next to a sitting area that gives you tree-top views, a walk-in closet with beautiful barn doors and a private ensuite with grey tile floor, corner shower and white vanity with dual sinks," she says. "You don’t find many master bedrooms like this in this area."

The like-new home is then completed by a fully finished lower level.

"It features a large rec room complete with high ceiling, wet bar and fireplace," Queen says.

"There’s also a three-piece bathroom with heated tile floor, a mechanical room with high-efficiency furnace and newer hot water tank — and plenty of storage space."

There’s no reason to buy a new home when you can find a home like this, she says.

"You’re basically getting a new home in a mature, established area. There’s no landscaping to do, trees to plant or fencing to install. You’re also close to a host of amenities and services, and the street is quiet and family-oriented. It’s a home that has so much to offer, and that must be seen to be appreciated."

lewys@mymts.net

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