Up-to-date Arvada has friendly face

Lofty yet unimposing, the Arvada's arched entry porch invites visitors to step inside this midsize contemporary home. Attractive turned brick caps rim the upper edge of the brick wainscoting, and multipaned windows add sparkle.

Light washes into the entry through both a sidelight and an arched clerestory window. Double doors on the left swing open into a vaulted living room expanded by a broad window bay. Step through the wide opening on the right side of the entry, and you find yourself in the dining room. A pocket door offers access to the kitchen, or, when desirable, separation from the noise and clutter there.

From the arched opening at the back of the entry, you can head into the kitchen and vaulted family room, or proceed on through double doors into the master suite.

This kitchen is larger than it seems, if you take the huge walk-in pantry into account. Standing at the kitchen sink, you can interact with family and friends at the eating bar, watch flames in the direct vent gas fireplace, keep track of activities in the family room, or gaze out the sliding glass doors.

The built-in desk makes a convenient phone location and comes in handy for keeping tabs on household finances. The overhead shelves can hold a library of cook books.

Laundry appliances are nearby in a pass-through utility room that connects to the garage. This space has a long folding counter, and can serve as a mud room, great for wiping muddy paws or shucking off messy foot gear.

Sliding glass doors in the Arvada's master suite offer direct access to the generously sized patio that spans most of the rear. Luxury features include: a large soaking tub, double vanity, spacious walk-in closet and separately enclosed toilet and shower.