Durham, NC Homes for Sale

Resting on over 5 peaceful, sylvan acres in the exclusive gated enclave of The Hills of Rosemont, this grand and gracious home exudes an ambiance of casual luxury. A lengthy driveway and expansive roundabout introduce the property; its grounds meticulously manicured and its centerpiece the distinguished Normandy-influenced residence, where handsome entry doors with a clerestory above, and impressive custom windows -- arched, with panes divided by arched muntins - embellish the home's façade. Entering the home, one is immediately impressed by its foyer's spaciousness and light, provided by the clerestory and a towering ceiling. Off the foyer, a study/office offers a view of the front grounds through large windows while a gracefully curving staircase rises to the second story gallery and its elevated view of the equally dramatic living room. The room overflows with natural light thanks to its soaring ceiling and French doors crowned by clerestory windows overlook a rear terrace. The romantic fireplace boasts a stone hearth and floor to ceiling stone surround flanked by handsome built-in cabinetry. The adjacent dining room is ready for intimate or formal repasts with its beautiful wood floor, wainscot, and a tray ceiling hosting an elegant chandelier. Substantial, warm, and welcoming, the kitchen offers all the accouterments one would expect in a gourmet culinary center: abundant custom cabinetry, excellent lighting, high-end appliances, a walk-in pantry, and a versatile center island. The kitchen extends unimpeded into a spacious breakfast area, and on to a large screened porch perfect for alfresco dining or simply enjoying nature and a good book. The 5 bedrooms of this fabulous home - 4 with baths ensuite -- are fit for the most discerning family members or guests. The generous 1st floor primary suite evokes Old World charm and sensibilities through its beautifully finished hardwood floor, high tray ceiling with double crown molding, sash windows, charming alcove sitting area with a lovely fireplace, and access to the terrace. Its bath is a luxurious haven with richly stained custom cabinetry, lavish light fixtures, a spa tub, and a glass-fronted double shower. Perfectly spaced for privacy off the 2nd floor central gallery, light-filled guestrooms enjoy unique configurations, enchanting views, and custom-fitted baths. An equally light-filled over 600 sq. ft. bonus room with a small wet bar and built-in cabinetry provides a venue offering numerous possibilities. An expansive lower level provides over 3,000 square feet of finished and semi-finished space, creating what seems like nearly endless opportunities for entertainment, recreation, relaxation, and significant storage. Multiple currently finished areas open to a veranda and the extensive rear grounds. From precisely manicured lawns and hedges to the stately trees embracing the rear acreage, landscaping here is a statement of understated sophistication. The terrace accommodates numerous seating and alfresco dining areas as well as a lovely in-terrace spa. Opening to the significant interior spaces of the home's lower level, as well as to the grounds, the spacious veranda provides a sheltered venue for relaxing and entertaining on summer days and during inclement weather. The open area beyond holds myriad possibilities: a pool, perhaps, and a putting green, lawn, flower and vegetable gardens, walking paths, oases for contemplation or reading, and much more. This spectacular sanctuary seems far from the madding crowd, yet is convenient to amenities such as Southpoint Mall, Duke and Chapel Hill Universities, the RDU Airport, Research Triangle Park (RTP), Jordan Lake, private Old Chatham Golf Course, and the Tobacco Trail.