For any person drawn to contemporary architecture, the home at 14 Essex Court in the exclusive Devonwood section of Farmington would be perfect. Located at the end of a cul-de-sac, its large east-facing arched window array above the main entrance suggests that this home is anything but ordinary. And, once inside, the open floor plan, with an expanse of glass facing Dunning Lake in Winding Trails, confirms this impression.

“This is just one of two homes in Devonwood that has a view of the lake,” said Christy Muller, the listing agent who is handling the sale with co-listing agent Jennifer Roller, both from William Pitt-Sotheby’s International Realty. The home becomes available around Labor Day.

The current owners, who confess to having decidedly mixed feelings about selling, know its appeal. “The minute I walked into this house, I said we’ll buy it,” said the owner, who has raised a family there. His wife added with a smile, “He committed to buy it even before an inspection!” Such is its appeal.

Now, their last child is in college, prompting the owners to acknowledge that, “This is a lot of house for just two people.” It has, however, been an ideal home to raise children. The Farmington school system is highly rated, the tax rate is low, and the location is nearly perfect.

“There is biking, and swimming in the lake,” which is a short walk away. “There is also a trail system that goes all the way to Avon Old Farms and the Avon soccer fields. I ride my bike on these trails often,” the owner said.

As for the interior, the entry leads to a spacious, open great room that has large windows along the west wall for panoramic lake views. “The sunsets are beautiful,” said Muller.

Adding to the drama of the design, this great room has a vaulted ceiling that soars 30 feet above the beautiful hardwood floors, and around its outer walls is a second floor balcony that accesses three of the home’s four bedrooms, plus a large open gathering area that faces east. It takes advantage of that large front window. The semi-circular expanse of glass at the top is complemented by a barrel ceiling that runs from the front to the rear of the home, where there are matching windows.

An open stairway, with a landing that overlooks the great room at the halfway point, adds to the appeal. It has also proven to be useful, as the owner notes that this home was initially owned by a lobbyist who used it to host large parties. The landing proved perfect for appearances by prominent national and local politicians. Since then, the current owner’s daughter, who is an accomplished singer, has used this landing to perform. The home has easily accommodated parties for more than 60 people.

The great room’s fireplace, which the current owners have upgraded with a wood-burning insert, is capable of heating the home in the event of a power failure. Wood can be stored in the large landscaped yard.

The dining area is open to the great room and kitchen, which is a chef’s delight. It is large, bright and well designed for both meal preparation and entertaining. A large island has a granite countertop and seating for informal meals and snacks. Stainless steel appliances are strategically placed around the outer walls, including a stove with a double oven and a wine cooler.

On one side at the front door is a home office with ample built-in storage and shelving. On the other side, tucked under the balcony, is a gathering spot that currently has a table and chairs. The family uses these for neighborhood card games, board games, and puzzles. Beyond that is the fourth bedroom that currently serves as a second office. A half bath and an open stairway to the lower level complete the first floor.

Upstairs there are three bedrooms, including the primary suite, and two full baths. One serves the primary suite and includes laundry facilities. The other full bath serves the other two bedrooms and the large gathering area.

The primary suite has more superb views of the lake, and features a large walk-in closet. Its bathroom has a dual sink marble-topped vanity and tiled floor. French doors with frosted glass windows access this suite from the balcony that overlooks the great room.

The lower level features two finished rooms. One has ample space for a home gym, gaming equipment and a comfortable seating area. There is storage along the rear wall and corner that has served as a bar. A cedar closet, a soundproofed home theater with raised theater seating, and a large storage and mechanical room complete the lower level.

For buyers who are looking for practicality as well as an impressive design and location, this home, including a large rear deck, was just painted. The roof was replaced three years ago, the heating system has been upgraded, and the air conditioning system is new as of this month. Sixteen windows have also been replaced this month. The water heater was replaced last month and is now an efficient tankless unit. Recent landscaping projects include new stairs a new retaining wall.

This unique property in a highly desirable neighborhood is perfect for a connoisseur of contemporary architecture who is seeking a home that is inspiring, and practical. “It is really exceptional,” said Muller.

Best feature: Dunning Lake views from a premiere Devonwood home that features soaring ceilings and an open floor plan

Contact: Christy Muller | Jennifer Roller

William Pitt-Sotheby’s International Realty

cmuller@wpsir.com | jroller@wpsir.com