SPACIOUS, GRACIOUS LIVING

The house at 1504 Briarcliff is off of Lexington in Cape Girardeau and is perfect for people who are tired of cookie-cutter homes.

You'll hardly realize you've left the outdoors when you step into this spacious corner lot Cape Girardeau home. Walls of windows opening to a uniquely creative rear garden and skylights bring the outdoors in.

The recessed entry of this board-and-batten home keeps winter's chill away when inviting guests in as well as providing plenty of shade on those hot sultry summer days. Large enough to house a baby grand piano, the parqueted-floor entry could almost be called a room by itself. An open stairway leads to the lower level, a skylight illuminates the area, a louvered opening above an eating counter opens to the kitchen and wide entrances invite you to the dining and living rooms.

Use the wood-burning fireplace in the dining room to create the perfect ambiance when entertaining dinner guests. The rich parquet flooring adds to the warmth of this room as well. Windows open to the well-manicured front lawn.

Earthtone tile on both the floor and counter top offer durability and style to the compact, functional kitchen. A wall of pantry cabinets with swing-out shelves provide more than ample storage.

Meals, especially breakfast, will be a delight when served in the breakfast nook. This "morning" room with its wall of windows overlooks the rear garden. Birds have adopted the tree just outside the windows, and many relaxing moments can be spent watching as they flitter about tending to their young.

Another magnificent view of the garden can be seen from two walls of windows in the step-down living room. Skylights in the room and another wood-burning fireplace are added special touches.

Time and care has been given to the creation of an outdoor getaway. Lighted low walls form a walkway around the backyard garden. Shade trees, benches and a hot tub make this a place you're sure to enjoy. Another section of the yard is also fenced. A stand of sturdy pines is the central focus of this area.

A half-bath in the two-plus car garage is easily accessible from the garden area. An extra section in the garage is large enough to house a boat, motorcycle or that special car you only drive occasionally.

Two main-floor rooms await your personal touch. Perhaps you need bedroom space or maybe you'd like your own personal office or work area. The hall bath is conveniently accessible from the living and bedroom areas.

A ceiling fan provides comfort in the well-lit master suite. Windows overlook the front and side yard. Use the mirrored alcove as a dressing area or slide in that antique dresser and let the mirrors create a unique look. A large shower and long counter with double sinks can be found in the master bath.

A lot of family living and entertaining will take place in the downstairs level. The "earthy" feel of the home continues downstairs with a stone wall and curved stone wet bar. Set the mood with the aid of indirect lighting.

Additional bedrooms could be created downstairs or perhaps you'd prefer a workout room and lots of extra storage space. An upstairs laundry chute sends clothes to the laundry area, which also has additional work space.

New carpeting, Anderson windows, a water softener and recently stained exterior are only a few of the many amenities this 1504 Briarcliff property has to offer. Set up your personal tour of this home offered by ReMax Realty One for $206,000.