Retreat in the countryside

The view of surrounding farmlands -- and on clear nights, lights from neighboring towns -- will make anyone glad they decided to leave city life and retreat to the comfort of the country and this custom-built ranch home. Fruit and nut trees dot the wooded five-acre landscape and a pole barn stands ready to house a variety of equipment.

Enter onto hardwood floors that lead from the entry to the dining area. Wood of a matching hue forms the railing protecting the stairs to the lower level. A large wooden beam trails the cathedral ceiling from family room to kitchen. Three ceiling fans with lights keep the area well lit and the air moving smoothly.

Many happy hours will be spent in front of the family room's wood-burning fireplace. The slant of the ceiling dictates the unique angle of the corner fireplace and surrounding sidewalls. French doors lead to the sunroom.

What a delightful place in which to relax: light streams in from the two skylights. Three ceiling fans create gentle breezes. Custom blinds shade the windows, which overlook the back yard and woods. Exit the sunroom to the exterior rear deck, which has stairs leading to a lower patio.

Families have a tendency to gather in the kitchen whether it be to fix a quick snack, help with the family meal or get help with homework while mom's busy cooking. Everyone will find this kitchen open and inviting. A two-level counter divides the workplace from the dining area itself. The upper level of the counter is barstool height, just perfect for breakfast and quick snacks.

Top the stair-stepped custom cabinets with plants, cookbooks or other collectibles. The large pantry will easily hold all those "bargain buys." The refrigerator is an included appliance in this ready-to-go kitchen.

A bath with an oversize shower stands just off the kitchen. Access to the two-car garage and sunroom are available here as well.

An extra wide hallway with full bath leads to the bedrooms. Wood floors and large closets can be found in two bedrooms. A walk-in utility room is located just outside the master suite.

Positioning furniture around windows and closet doors can often be a decorating nightmare. His/her closets are located on either side of the walkway between the master bedroom and bath keeping bedroom walls clear. Want to relax in the comfort of a Jacuzzi tub, or perhaps an invigorating shower sounds better; whichever, this bath offers both.

The 2,000-plus square foot area downstairs is partially completed. A wood-burning furnace with thermostat is set in place, which has the capability of heating the entire house. The lower-level two-car garage has a single overhead door and a walk-through door. There's an abundance of storage space, some with built-in shelving.

Keep that summer tan all year long while staying at home. A small separate room already has a 220-volt outlet installed. Hot and cold running water in a custom cabinet is in place in another finished room. A half-bath sits nearby.

Contact Century 21 Dutch Realty to see what other surprises are in store in this $234,900 home located on County Road 231.

dbedwell@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 211