who says practical can′t be fabulous certainly not this rare detached home in princeton′s governors lane, where a first-floor primary suite, wonderfully generous rooms, and a designer′s eye for detail come together in a house that is filled with polish. from the textured wallcoverings to the artful mix of furnishings and finishes, a local designer has helped create interiors that feel collected rather than decorated. and while the floor plan makes an excellent alter native to a 55+ community, there′s nothing remotely scaled-down about the way this home lives. the dining room is ready for a crowd, whether it′s thanksgiving dinner or an evening that stretches well past dessert. across the hall, the living room′s gas fireplace sets a lovely mood, while a den with built-ins and a window seat makes a convincing case for staying home with a good book. the first-floor primary suite is a pleasure in its own right, with two custom closets and a spa-style bathroom. then there′s the kitchen, big, bright, and opening onto one of governors lane′s most appealing features: a courtyard garden that feels like a little world of its own. even the practical details have been considered, from the two-car garage access to the powder room and a laundry chute in the main suite. the surprises continue downstairs, where a finished basement includes a projection home theater with built-in speakers. there′s also a half bathroom, a laundry room and plenty of storage. upstairs, a music room was carved from the loft, with enough space for a baby grand piano. three more bedrooms and two full bathrooms round out this level, including a bedroom that′s been transformed into a well- equipped home office with built-ins. governors lane has always had a certain appeal, but this one brings something extra to the conversation
