There are times, rare though they might be, when a multiple personality proves to be advantageous.
Take a home, for example. While most people think of a home one-dimensionally -- you buy it and live in it -- some homes offer more than just one way to do that.
To Realty Executives' Diamond Group's Renee Dewar, 10 Faraway Lane is one of those rarities.
"The way it's been set up, it's like three homes in one, if you want to use it in that manner," she said of the 2,269-sq.-ft. two-storey built by Randall Homes in 2008.
"There's a wonderful surprise in the basement, in the form of a large bedroom, bathroom with jetted tub and media/living room and eat-in kitchen."
This area, which boast a welcome infusion of light from a large windows in the living room and kitchen could be used in three different ways.
"You could use the kitchen as an extra cooking area. Doing that will allow you to keep your kitchen upstairs clean if you prefer to keep things looking nice and orderly upstairs.
"More likely, you could use the basement as a place for in-laws to live, or as an apartment to rent out to a student. All you'd have to do is put a door off the front entrance to close off the stairs. You could share the main-floor laundry while having someone live downstairs.
"There's all kinds of potential -- it's up to you as to how you'd want to use it."
The home's second level also comes loaded with possibilities, this time in the form of a 14.2-foot by 16-foot bonus room.
"Again, it all depends on what your needs are," Dewar said. "It's a space that could be used as a media room, play area, library, study area or even another bedroom -- there are so many options."
Every room on the second floor is larger than normal, and both kids' bedrooms have the room available to grow with their occupants as they progress from toddlers to teens. With a four-piece bathroom adjacent to the bedrooms -- offering a soaker tub, faux tile vinyl floor and maple vanity, there's no need for the kids to venture into their parent's living space.
At 17 by 16 feet, the master suite offers parents space to create their own oasis of regeneration. There's plenty of room for a king-size bed, end tables, a dresser and/or armoire with enough left over for a reading area. A large window lets in loads of light, while a walk-in closet and three-piece ensuite offer additional storage and a private spot to shower and get ready for work in the morning.
"I think the great thing about the upper level is that everyone has their own space," Dewar said. "Plus, there's room to move. The landing is generous and the stairs are extra-wide, so families won't have any problem moving about, even on busy school/work days."
The main floor is a fine example of how functional a home can be if the floor plan is well-thought-out. With its L-shaped, open-concept design, the great room can be summed up in two words: exceptional flow.
"I just love how the plan flows," she said. "It's just so easy to get from space to space. The formal dining room is easily accessible through a doorway off the back of the kitchen, or from the hallway that leads from the great room to the foyer.
"It's an open yet segmented plan, with a one-third wall (with built-in shelving) that neatly divides the kitchen's dinette area (cleverly placed by two large windows and a door to the backyard patio) from the family room."
Style and practicality also co-exist in perfect balance in the fine floor plan: an angled 10-foot island with double sink and eating nook for two provides an additional eating area and preparation space. A low-maintenance vinyl floor that mimics tile, brown laminate counter tops, taupe tile backsplash and oak cabinetry add warmth.
Then there's the family room, a perfect spot to take guests after dinner for coffee, dessert and a chat.
"It's a gorgeous area with a gas fireplace (with brown cultured stone surround), custom floating shelving and plenty of room for furniture," Dewar said. "While it's a good-sized space, it's still small enough to be intimate. Big windows all along the rear wall fill the area with just the right amount of light."
Only minutes from St. Vital Shopping Centre and the Perimeter Highway, as well as schools and other key amenities, 10 Faraway offers families all kinds of potential and utility, she added.
"This home has something to offer the entire family and then some. It's in like-new condition, has space and style, and the floor plan is so versatile.
"It's ready for a family to enjoy, in whatever way they choose to use it."
lewys@mts.net
DETAILS
Location: 10 Faraway Lane, River Park South
Year Built: 2008
Style: Two-storey
Size: 2,269 sq. ft.
Lot Size: 42' x 109'
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3.5
Taxes: $4,842.78 (Gross 2011)
Price: $439,900
Contact: Renee Dewar, Realty Executives Diamond Group @ 979-5478
