showcase 6/9

It's summertime, and the living is easy, as the old saying goes. That's especially true of the home at 1936 Oak Hills. Whether inside or outside, this home is as relaxing as a summer day.

This brick home is set elegantly on a hill with landscaping that has been done especially well. Everything about this home has been well-planned, from its two-level redwood deck and aggregate patio in the back yard to its classic interior design.

From the moment you enter this home, you feel its cool elegance. Even the entrance is very attractive, with a unique storm door decorated with ornate wrought iron. The foyer greets you with warm hard wood floors. A plush cream-colored carpeting is found in much of the house, including the formal living room, which also features a large bay window, an elegant-in-white brick gaslog fireplace, and handsome wooden beams that stretch across the ceiling.

The kitchen features dark oak cabinetry, neat-as-a-pin appliances, and double stainless steel sinks with a window over them. A little sunshine makes any household chore go much easier. The kitchen is also well-blessed with pantry and cabinet space. Located conveniently near the kitchen is a laundry area and half bath.

The formal dining room is decorated elegantly, yet not ostentatiously. A simple chandelier graces the room, and a restful floral wallpaper gives the room warmth. For less formal dining, there is a breakfast nook. One of my favorite touches was a window seat that runs the length of the informal dining area, offering a cheery spot for a morning cup of coffee while watching the birds in the back yard. Storage beneath the window seats was a very clever idea.

This home has four bedrooms and three and a half baths, all decorated very nicely with wallpapers and floorings that look new. Two of the bathrooms have very generous double-sink vanity areas.

The master bedroom, which is located upstairs, features plush creamy-colored carpeting, and a soft rose wall covering. Double windows offer a wealth of cheery, natural light. His and hers closets are another added convenience. The upstairs bathroom is decorated with a soothing sage green wall covering and white ceramic tile flooring.

The finished basement offers even more family living space, including a family entertainment room with a bar area. Though not a wet bar, the bar area is equipped with its own refrigerator and handsome cabinetry for storage. The downstairs also has room for an exercise or hobby area. A downstairs stainless steel double sink located near the door to the back yard offers a perfect spot for clean up of gardening supplies. Also downstairs is a bathroom with shower, and the oversized two-car garage.

This home is priced at $196,500 and is being shown through Prudential Bridgeport Realtors, 335-0121.

traddle@semissourian.com