Form and function

There is an art to simplicity, and no where can that be seen more dramatically than in architecture and home design.

The house at 2456 Brookwood, is one built in the heyday of split-level ranch-style homes. But architect Fred Dormeir Jr., who designed the house, was influenced by simplicity, function and a relationship to the natural environment.

At first glance, this house is a simple red brick split-level ranch-style home with a good design for its location. But functionality was obviously a factor in its construction. The property features a circle drive and limestone retaining walls that gently shape the grounds. Another feature catching attention from the outside is a terrace that sits above the lower level two-car garage.

But inside is where Dormeir really put some creativity to use in planning a highly functional yet elegant home. A two-door entry way announces that this home is going to be special.

Up a step is the formal living room, which has as one of its focal points a large picture window. A wooden parquet floor stretches into the formal dining room, which has a sliding glass door that leads to the terrace.

The kitchen has been decorated in a cream palette. The ceramic tile flooring, cabinets and even appliances are all the same color. A hunter green tile backsplash and clay-colored faux wall treatment give eye-catching deviation from the monochromatic color scheme. The kitchen features a built-in range top, double ovens and side by side refrigerator with indoor drink and ice dispenser. A handy bar between the kitchen and family room has folding doors above it so you can close off the family room's view of the kitchen. A large pantry area with sliding doors is another example of camouflaged storage space built into the home.

A door from the kitchen allows access to the backyard patio and in-ground pool area. Again, excellent design was used in planning the patio and pool areas. A large ivy-covered arbor covers the patio area, offering it shade and privacy. The kidney-shaped pool is surrounded by a generous walkway..

Back inside the house, a family and sitting room area has a strikingly massive stone fireplace. Exposed rustic beams give the room a lodge atmosphere.

A separate bedroom wing gives the bedrooms more privacy and eliminates noise from the rest of the house. The three bedrooms in this wing are each large enough to comfortably accommodate a king-sized bed and furniture for a sitting area.

The master bedroom suite is very roomy, with a walk-in closet. Combined with the white plush carpeting, the effect of a white linen wall covering is luxurious. Even more luxurious is the master bathroom where gleaming black marble with just a hint of green is on the floors, walls and around the large whirlpool tub. The vanity area is mirrored on three sides. The modern low-water usage toilet is in its own alcove.

This house also has a partially finished basement with its own living room area, dining area, bedroom and bathroom. The bath features a step-in shower.

Also downstairs is the washer and dryer, concealed behind folding doors off the basement hallway. Also tucked away is an ironing board that folds into the wall.

This home is listed at $279,900, and is available for viewing through Re/Max Achievers Realty, 334-8800.