Norkenzie focuses on family living

Front gables, painted shutters, and fanlights add sparkle to the Norkenzie, a home designed to meet the needs of a contemporary family.

Gathering spaces dominate the ground floor. At center is a vaulted family room, with a ceiling that's almost 19 feet high. Arched openings lead to the vaulted entry, the nook and the master suite. Windows fill most of the rear wall, and a hefty woodstove serves as a focal point during the darker months.

People who enjoy eating will appreciate the abundance of areas dedicated to this delightful activity -- basically the entire left side of the house. A high-ceilinged dining room provides an impressive environment for formal and festive meals. The eating bar is great for quick meals and snacks, while the bright, step-ceilinged nook invites you to linger over steaming mugs of coffee or tea at the beginning and end of your day. The kitchen's abundant cupboard and counter space includes a pantry and a built-in desk with shelves above.

French doors on the side of the entry hall open into a room that could be outfitted as a guest room, study, or office. Luxury features in the master suite include an elegant tray ceiling, huge walk-in closet, and a large bathroom with tub, shower and twin lavs. Utilities are close to the garage, across from a large bathroom.

A skylight illuminates the Norkenzie's second floor landing, which overlooks the family room. Two bedrooms share a third bathroom, and a spacious attic space is brightened by two skylights and a front-facing dormer.