93 Gilchrist Avenue, Ottawa

93 Gilchrist Avenue isn't just an address; it's a masterclass in collaboration. When you bring together the architectural vision of Jacques Hamel, the interior intuition of Penny Southam, and the craftsmanship of local legends like Joe Rizk and artist Detlef Gotzens, you don't just get a house, you get a living, breathing piece of art all pulled together by renowned builder Gallivan Developments. No wonder it took 1st place in the 2007 GOHBA awards for renovation and addition, effectively doubling its size. From the moment you step into the airy, maple-lined foyer, it's clear that light was the primary guest invited to this design. The home feels drenched in it, thanks to a soaring cathedral skylight and a floating oak staircase that acts as a utilitarian sculpture at the heart of the home. It's the kind of space that makes you want to pause before you even take your coat off. The kitchen is where the "slick" meets the "soulful." Backlit translucent glass panels handcrafted by Gotzens create an intimate glow against soapstone counters and Sub-Zero refrigeration. It's a high-performance workspace. Whether you're hosting a formal dinner under the Flos chandelier or retreating to the west-facing office with its floor-to-ceiling frosted glass doors, every corner feels intentional. Upstairs, the primary suite is a sanctuary of glass and marble, complete with a private balcony for morning coffee. But perhaps the most charming "secret" is the second bedroom, a Southam designed dream of built-in nooks and window seats that would make any guest (or lucky child) feel instantly at home. Even the basement refuses to feel like an afterthought, boasting 7'8" finished ceilings (rare for the village), heated floors, and a sophisticated in-law suite that looks out over a rock garden. This isn't a home of "builder-grade" anything. It's a home of lava rock tile, stainless steel reveals, and Crestron lighting. It's sophisticated, yes, but it's also warm, functional, and deeply human!