Special is an understatement. This New Edinburgh Victorian home refurbished by the talented hand of designer Henrietta Southam is pure magic. With an exceptionally on-point facade that celebrates its 19th century heritage, you would never guess that this entire home - foundation and all - has been completely refurbished. The chance to live in a home so flawlessly balanced between 21st century comforts and historic elan comes only once in a lifetime.

Savour the heritage location - steps from Stanley Park and Rideau Hall, home lies at the intersection of some of the neighbourhood's best preserved streets. Beneath the open gable roof and on all four sides of the dwelling, sash windows are framed in custom contrasting trim, while the solid front door welcomes in the faintest shade of pale pink. These subtle hints are only the beginning of the exacting design details that went into this family dwelling.

Wait until you get inside.

Character bursts at the threshold; a sumptuous mix of textures and one of a kind finishes offers a warm greeting. Marvel at the effortless continuity yielded by the original layout - there's a rhythm to this dwelling that an open floor plan could never achieve. One human-scaled room leads to the next, while connected by a stunning sightline through to the latticed outdoor oasis at the back of the house.

A thoughtful, upscale theme takes shape. Start with the Jason Miller white porcelain antler pendant overhead, then move to the hand-cut oversized millwork that graces every doorway, the gallery architectural lighting ready to illuminate family memories and favourite artwork, the oil rubbed bronze finish on every new Pella window, and finally the 5 inch ash hardwood that gleams underfoot thanks to the age-old fine wood finishing technique of raising the grain.

And yet, despite the exceptional taste and craftsmanship that is displayed in every inch of this home, there is an instant sense of comfort. Guests feel equally comfortable kicking off their shoes and settling in for a cup of tea as they do getting dressed to the nines for a cocktail soiree. Take for example, the formal living room to your right illuminated by a bank of windows and gilded driftwood sconces; it seems destined for memorable gatherings pre-or post dinnertime, both elegant and relaxed. A Brothers Dressler chandelier beckons from the dining room - you'll want to host an epic dinner party under the Swarovski Crystals sparkling overhead.

Make your way into the family room and kitchen - the heart of home united via a ceiling of emerald green reclaimed barnwood. The effect is cozy, captivating - your clan will love spending time here whether for busy mornings, after school hangouts, or lazy weekends. Custom built-in shelves and Cole & Son wallpaper flank a fireplace that sets the tone for every scenario; late night chats, game night, "me" time. French doors overlook a deliciously private courtyard-patio. A layered pergola yields a sense of volume in this tranquil urban setting. A decidedly indoor-outdoor feel is enhanced by Brazilian limestone and hand-picked brass Ralph Lauren sconces. The result is a perfect extension of space during warmer months.

Back inside, the open kitchen nearby is bright, and praises functionality as much as impeccable design. The contemporary scandi-chic Hay pendant, sleek waterfall countertop island and stainless open shelf balance out grass roman shades and drawer storage with leather-wrapped handles. Portuguese silverleaf tile pairs beautifully with industry-loved names like Wolf, Liebherr and Blanco - if you never enjoyed cooking before, you will in this kitchen.

Ingenious planning has converted the original garage at the back of the house to a fourth bedroom or potential home office. White-washed pine shiplap, heated ceramic floors and a well-appointed powder room round out this space. Secondary access outside is exceptionally practical, as well as basement access nearby - seasonal decor never has to travel through the rest of the house.

Take the original stairs to the second level, where contemporary and historic touches continue their unconventional dance. Three bedrooms are matched in character and luxe finishes - silver leaf wood rods with linen curtains adorn light-filled windows and closets are lined with shiplap. One boasts floor to ceiling bookshelves in the same blue as in the family room - cohesiveness reigns here. Find it perfectly suited for a personal study if you so choose. The master features double closets, a generous footprint, and was reconfigured to optimize home's notable orientation - rise gently with the sun all year round.

Bold contemporary style in the main bath accompanies morning and evening routines; a woodland scene floats above in the light fixture thanks to Amsterdam's Nicolette Brunklaus while wall sconces add warmth. The stand alone soaker tub is a weekend favourite and the double vanity ensures there's room for everyone. Down the hall, handy second floor laundry also offers additional of storage.

Where else can you experience life surrounded by the city's heritage and lush greenery so close at hand? Bike paths take you to the city's best schools, Parliament, and beyond. Nearby Union Street Cafe is sure to become a favourite weekend hangout, and the specialty shops of Beechwood Village just steps away offer convenience on the daily. Intelligent, ready for anything spaces, an exceptional curation of fine, distinctive finishes - a family home like this doesn't come up often - book your appointment today.