Renowned architect Barry Hobin penned the design as one of two 'owners' residences at this award-winning heritage restoration. Ottawa history runs deep here. Built as Ottawa Ladies College in 1914, the building became the original home of Carleton University. Edwardian proportions made it ideal for residential repurposing.

Hobin's design for this home is characteristically ingenious … and strategic. The ground floor reception area is understated, barely hinting at the opulence above, with a dash of period detailing on the oak staircase. Only when guests climb the stairway to the main hall does the home's character reveal itself.

Using the height and Edwardian formality to maximum effect, the main gallery hallway evokes famous 'Belle Epoque' interior vistas, using a long opulent perspective view that draws impact from four pillars defining the dining area. The aesthetic experience of this space is endlessly delightful.

Take in the textures and detailing as you move toward the public spaces of this grand residence: the deep-set door frames, hardwood oak floors, gallery lighting, fine crown moldings and baseboards.

The formal living room builds on the Belle Epoque aesthetic, using the repeating columnar Edwardian windows as a backdrop. The gas hearth has faux-marble mantel and mirror frame finished by the artist Helios Nadal. The hearth is bounded by windows with views of the spires of St Mathew's Church. Nadal's finishing craft distinguishes sumptuous details like the grand-scaled ceiling medallion, antique gilded crown moldings and subtle "waxed" ceiling surfaces that give this room its palatial 19th century character.

Ingenious design shapes a formal dining space that seems to crave celebrations. Four columns set the stage, establishing space for a royalty-ready dining table, under a blazing period-inspired chandelier. An open loft wall separates the dining space from the kitchen and family room and serves as a backdrop for a sideboard.

Beyond the dining room, enter a warm galley-style kitchen and family room space. A bank of recessed down-lights illuminates the sleek black granite counters and upscale wood shaker-style cabinetry, with abundant drawers and storage. A parallel bar-style counter is gourmet-friendly and sociable. For formal gatherings, a separate butler's pantry with prep sink off the kitchen is designed to give caterers unobtrusive kitchen workspace.

The kitchen and adjoining family room bathe in natural light from six elegant windows. There's a relaxed inviting feeling here, with gas hearth, room for an informal dining area plus couch space for media. For summer alfresco dining the large sheltered veranda-style balcony has a gas barbeque hook up.

Discover the sophisticated master suite –a private retreat with it's own entry hall. An intimate mood is set by alcoves and ceiling details defining the sitting and bed areas and accenting a dramatic gas hearth with faux-marble surround. Romantic church-spire views delight. Behind the hearth wall you'll find access to a long walk-in closet with organizing cabinetry. An expansive 5 piece ensuite invites relaxation with heated earth-toned slate floors, oversized glass and slate walk-in shower and dual sink granite topped vanity and therapy tub.

Guest/family bedrooms have refined ensuites with dark slate floors, granite counters, abundant storage. In the charming "French Hotel" style guest bedroom there's a large linen closet, ensuite with slate floors and tub and shower, plus granite-topped vanity. A second guest bedroom/studio has a raised second level that appeals to younger guests.

Great ideas take shape in the study/library with tall windows and walls that seem built for massive bookshelves. The sizable bathroom off this space is dramatic and lovely in dark slate, with shower bath and pedestal sink. A second walk-in closet stands by, along with discrete laundry room.

Superb security, underground parking and condo convenience make owning this masterful home effortless. Enjoy the short walk to the Glebe's famed shopping, cafés and restaurants through a legendary neighbourhood of tree-lined streets and century-old homes. To experience this rare opportunities to own this superlative urban home, plan your appointment very soon.

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