One glance at a map of old Ottawa explains why this socially impeccable location is so desirable. Walk one block to the east and you reach the Governor General's gardens. A block to the north is Sussex Avenue and the French Embassy, the PM's residence and Foreign Affairs. To the west is the Stanley Park and the charming 19th century Minto Bridges. Even if diplomacy is not your thing, you'll love walking everywhere in this neighborhood of confederation-era streetscapes, two great rivers and Rideau Falls.

All the fundamentals reflect architectural "best practice" – a deliberate infill design ethos imbuing this late-1970's-modern house with timeless cool that more recent designs might well envy. The facade is well set back from the street, to add privacy and cede prominence to the historic 19th century homes that define this streetscape. The grade is slightly elevated, creating better views, and protecting the sense of entry. The garage is tucked unobtrusively underground, below grade. Maintenance-free 'zen' front landscaping features a flagstone surfacing and a maturing maple for summer shade and privacy.

The front foyer level welcomes with space and light, plus open stairs to the upper and lower living levels. Natural slate flooring appeals. A generous reception closet manages outerwear.

Step up one half level to the first floor. A large well equipped eat in kitchen basks in the light of a triptych of windows at the front of this home. This simple, sunny and elegantly restrained Mediterranean-inspired space has everything a serious chef might require, including a big social island, pantry, track task lighting, and charming tile finishes. The eat-in area with its tree shaded windows and broad street views will be an instant household favorite. Nearby, a practical powder room continues the warm Mediterranean theme.

Down the open hallway the dining area commands views on two sides. And here the architect's attention to livability announces itself, transforming the space. The floor plan features a side cutaway, designed to bring in light and add a sense of separation between the front and back areas of the home. The design creates a charming, sheltered outdoor dining deck. This pocket of outdoor green (flowering honeysuckle and Japanese Lilac) is made extra private by fencing and a pergola. Design enthusiasts may recognize the theories of architectural philosopher Christopher Alexander at play. But whatever the inspiration, there's no doubt this smart and considerate design works.

Notice how the beautifully proportioned living room feels like a completely distinct space, while retaining the long views of an open concept design. The floor is slightly lowered to enhance separation and add the ceiling height and grandeur required for public spaces. The hearth is elegant, perfectly scaled as a simple massive shape. Glass doors and a gorgeous row of well-proportioned floor-to-ceiling windows overlook a fenced, very private back deck, with city sized cool-down pool, and stairs to shaded outdoor dining.

Upstairs the smart design separates the front master suite from the children's bedrooms at the rear of the house adding privacy. You'll admire the way the irregular shape of the upstairs landing adds interest and closet space. The master suite here is a true refuge, spacious with walk-in closet and personal breakfast/siesta balcony. A refined ensuite has double sinks and skylight.

Discover two large children's/guest bedrooms down the brightly windowed hall at the back of the house. Both have good closet space and attractive views. Both are served by a main bath with tub and shower, plus linen closet nearby.

The lower level here affords polished living space too. A great media room welcomes relaxed entertaining with gas fireplace, plus full windows looking out on a lower level rock garden. There's a powder room on this level, plus cold storage and a cedar closet. Practical too, is the direct lower level entry to the garage.

Bright international-style homes of this quality are exceedingly rare in this very old quarter of New Edinburgh. Rarer still is a location offering 19th century charm, proximity to power, the very best schools, riverside parks, a waterfall and a five minute commute to downtown. Prepare to be captivated.

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