Set far back from the street, a family sanctuary only 7 minutes from Ottawa's downtown core awaits busy family days and laughter-filled nights. Surrounded by the idyllic elements that make Rockcliffe a city-wide favorite, it's a destination brimming with character, love and ease of living.

A cottage setting in the heart of the city is the much appreciated product of a tranquil street, age-old trees, and well-cared for gardens all around. Somehow, the quiet serenity of country living marries with the daily happenings of family life with incomparable balance. This mid-century home offers up a neutral and refined palette; starting with a low-slung roofline with shallow gables that ingeniously camouflages a second storey. Natural stone and brick come together at the covered entrance, the curved archway punctuating straight, clean lines. Square columns yield a sense of occasion - the result is understated, chic.

Front door sidelights set the tone for the rest of your visit - open, welcoming, bright. Inside, multi-hued hexagonal tile strikes a charismatic impression. A centre hall layout signals effortless flow of thoughtful family zones, elegant open rooms fit for epic entertaining, and a home where casual post-soccer evenings with the kids and a stylish cocktail soiree are perfectly compatible. Years of updates lay out balanced proportions and timeless finishes - horizontal shaker doors repeat throughout for a zen-like motif, oak hardwood gleams and new Comfort King windows can be found throughout.

An open living and dining room under high ceilings yields space for a large crowd and handles the flow of guests effortlessly throughout the home. Know that a cocktail party of 60 people has already been hosted here to wonderful success. A sweeping picture window leaves the space bathed in natural light, while the Napoleon gas fireplace, anchored in cool ceramic, offers a visual focal point.

Off the dining room, a mudroom leads to the backyard and two car garage access. Note the ample space in the garage along with a handy second door to the backyard - never worry about dragging outdoor seasonal decor through the home.

Across the hall, a wood-paneled home office is a nod to the mid-century charm of this great house. A large picture window is an attention-seeker, leaving you with the endless dilemma of finishing your latest brief or watching the Japanese ferns unfurl outside … never fear, built-ins and the abundance of natural light from a clerestory window keep productivity in check.

A main floor bedroom can serve as an ideal in-law suite with its double closets and bright three piece ensuite. Alternatively, an autonomous teen may also love to lay claim to this private space. The nearby powder room serves this level with aplomb. Making up the back of the house, the heart of the home unfolds with comfortable informality. The kitchen's crisp white theme hosts clever cupboard storage, including a large pantry, as well as plenty of workspace - perfect for handling the needs of everyday life. Jenn Air fridge and Miele appliances fit in perfectly with glass backsplash and on point design. The peninsula and integrated table see plenty of action, allowing the family chef, guests and family members to participate in cooking and conversation - every meal is a family affair.

With the adjacent family room and its fireplace flanked by windows - you've found the perfect place to watch TV, lounge after school or work, or enjoy quiet me time. This central family space proves essential, especially during cooler months. When spring blooms, the home comes alive - off the kitchen, a screened-in dining room is kitted with pine and cedar. Revel in bug-free dinners that come naturally in the summer months. A sprawling deck can handle all sorts of outdoor kitchen equipment without feeling crowded. You'll love hosting alfresco soirees as the fish pond and waterfall gurgles in the background, and the lush garden around you thrives with a mix of easy to manage perennials and vegetation.

Back inside, the second floor boasts two bedrooms and a smart homework nook or office at the bright, sky-lit landing. The first bedroom features a large ensuite and walk-through closet - smart design finds every bedroom with an ensuite, granting all occupants their own space. Sibling squabbles? A thing of the past. In the master, a generous footprint holds a walk-in closet and impeccably finished ensuite. Marble accents and custom tile work in cool hues create a beautiful environment in which to start and finish each day. A dual-head walk in shower and stand alone soaker tub are the epitome of weekend relaxation, and you'll love the custom vessel sinks and handy storage towers - the mark of smart design? Spin them around to hide the mess and show off full length mirrors on the other side.

The basement reflects the entire footprint of the home, resulting in a sweeping rec room area - mom and dad get easy respite when needed. With another fireplace and plenty of room, this zone is great for recreation and games. Down the hall, a three piece ensuite serves two bedrooms - overnight guests are handled. Storage lies near the bright laundry room - a folding counter, drying bar and double sink makes light of this chore.

Enjoy a home with an incredibly clever layout - where else can a growing family enjoy their own private space while still being a part of it all? Walk to the nearby pond - a true luxury where most are seeking parking just to see it - or bike down the river just minutes away to pick up fresh groceries in the Byward Market or Beechwood Village nearby. Independent children revel in transit and parks within walking distance. Families come for renowned schools, the charm of a historic neighborhood and the convivial sense of community. They stay for the deep love that's fostered in a home where family time always comes first. What an exceptional place to call home - see it today!