Chivington suits busy family

Hipped roof lines with clipped ends combine with tall, slender porch posts to give the contemporary Chivington an intriguing front facade. With three large gathering spaces on the main floor, this midsize home is well-designed to meet the needs of a busy modern family.

In the entry and great room, a striking two-story ceiling creates an expansive sense of volume. Entering, you pass double doors on the left that open into the living room. This window-bright space also has another door that leads to the powder room, stairs and eating nook.

Informal living spaces fill most of the rear, where the great room, nook and kitchen flow together. Wide windows, stacked two high, provide plenty of natural light on all but the darkest days. And when those dreary days and nights come, family and friends will enjoy the warmth and color of dancing flames in the two-sided direct vent gas fireplace.

Ceiling height drops to eight feet in the nook and kitchen. Counters wrap around three sides, extending in a long peninsula that could be outfitted as an eating bar. A large walk-in pantry boosts storage space, and wide sliders in the bayed nook offer patio access.

Laundry appliances are close by, in a big utility room outfitted with cabinets, deep sink and a wide counter, ideal for folding clothes or sewing. Connected to the garage as well as the kitchen, this space also serves as a mud room, handy for letting muddy paws or messy foot gear dry out.

Amenities in the Chivington's master suite include: a roomy walk-in closet, two sinks, a soaking tub, and separately enclosed shower and toilet. Three more bedrooms and a bathroom are upstairs.