Space and style

If you look at homes built in the late-1940s and early ’50s, they share one common characteristic.

That characteristic is the fact their layouts were either good or bad. There was no in-between, making for a home that was either livable, or a somewhat of a pain to reside in.

Jeff Brown of Sutton Group-Kilkenny Real Estate says his new listing at 227 Academy Rd. is of the eminently livable sort.

“This is a fantastic home,” he says. “That isn’t something you can say about every home of this vintage. For starters, its square footage is excellent at just over 1,200 sq. ft. That makes for good-sized spaces throughout.”

He says the generous spaces would be wasted if the home’s layout was terribly designed.

“Fortunately, that’s not the case. The floor plan is very logical making for a very functional home,” Brown says. “I also like how it’s situated. It’s set well back from the street, fronted by beautiful cedars and trees that give it a wonderful sense of privacy. There’s even a beautiful sitting area tucked away to the side of the front entrance.”

Step inside, and you’re greeted by a thoroughly delightful foyer.

“The great thing about this home is that it offers a perfect blend of character and modern comfort,” says Brown. “Take the foyer. The vintage light fixture over it is an original detail that ties in perfectly with its original early-’50s origins.”

Meanwhile, there’s an immediate sense of space due to the way the front of the home was laid out, with a living room to the left and formal dining room to the right.

“I absolutely love how the front of the home was designed,” Brown says. “You’re welcomed into a large living room — it’s nearly 12-by-21 feet — that has a big picture window and medallion ceiling with gorgeous trim and detailing.”

Then, there’s the dining room across the way.

“What can you say — the woodwork on its walls and ceiling is simply amazing, and so rich,” Brown says. “A beautiful chandelier adds a nice touch of elegance while a large window and corner window let in loads of natural light. I also love the gleaming hardwood flooring. It’s in wonderful shape and runs through most of the main floor.”

From there, the rest of the main floor — large, well-placed windows let in tons of daylight, making for a naturally bright interior — unfolds in logical, no-nonsense fashion.

There’s a surprisingly spacious kitchen, which checks in at about 10-by-12 feet, a spacious main bathroom and two bedrooms.

“Again, the home’s generous square footage comes into play there,” Brown says. “If it was 900 or 1,000 sq. ft. the spaces would be quite a bit smaller.”

Thankfully, that’s not the case with the bedrooms; the secondary bedroom is 11-by-11 feet, while the primary bedroom is 11-by-17.

“The primary bedroom is unusually large for a home this age, which is a great feature,” Brown says. “Another great feature are the two windows on its rear wall that let in tons of natural light. It’s also tucked away by itself, making for a wonderful, private retreat.”

As it turns out, the home’s lower level is a revelation. Unlike so many 75-year-old homes, it offers excellent ceiling height and functionality. Most importantly, it’s modern.

“You don’t always see this in homes in this area — a home this age with a contemporary, fully finished basement that has so much to offer,” Brown says.

Laminate plank flooring gives it a fresh, modern feel, as does its open-concept layout. There’s a huge rec room, two additional rooms, a second four-piece bathroom with laundry area and ample storage space.

“It adds over 700 sq. ft. of wonderfully livable space to the home,” says Brown. “That makes it ideal for a growing family.”

Add to that a private, fenced backyard with sitting area, single detached garage and a great location that’s close to everything.

“The home’s location is fantastic,” he says. “You’re next to a walking path that leads to Wellington Crescent and are within walking distance of shops and restaurants on Academy Road and Corydon. You’re also across from Kelvin High School and close to numerous amenities. This is a fabulous home that offers character, charm, space and flexibility in a great location.”

lewys@mymts.net