We talk a lot about square footage when we describe homes. But square footage only measures what's inside the walls. At 36 Leominster Street in Westminster, some of the property's most appealing "rooms" don't have walls at all.

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It Starts With 1.5 Acres

There's a big difference between owning acreage and having acreage you can actually use. Here, a broad open lawn is surrounded by mature trees, creating a property that feels spacious without simply being an expanse of woods. There's room to garden. Room for outdoor games. Room for projects. Room to pull up a chair and do absolutely nothing.

That last one may be the best use of all.

One Backyard, Lots of Ways to Enjoy It

What really makes this property interesting is that the outdoor space has been developed into different areas. The large composite deck is directly accessible from the kitchen, making it a natural extension of the house for meals and entertaining. Elsewhere you'll find a fire pit, patio and covered swing hanging from an arbor.

And then there's the separate screened sitting area tucked into the yard. It's easy to imagine a summer evening out there with a book, a drink and significantly fewer mosquitoes than people. Several outbuildings provide additional space for tools, equipment, recreational gear or creative pursuits. The MLS notes that the outbuildings and swing set convey with the property.

The Inside Holds Its Own

Fortunately, you don't have to sacrifice the house to get the property. The remodeled kitchen is arguably the star indoors, with quartz countertops, white cabinetry, stainless-steel appliances, hardwood flooring and an oversized contrasting island. Large windows bring in plenty of natural light, and a slider connects the kitchen directly to the deck. The first floor also includes a spacious living area with hardwood floors, two bedrooms and two baths.

Then Things Get Interesting Upstairs

The second floor doesn't feel like a conventional bedroom. Instead, it's an expansive private retreat stretching approximately 35 feet, with room for sleeping and sitting areas, an office nook, dressing space and substantial eave storage.

It's one of those spaces that photographs can show you, but probably makes much more sense once you're standing in it.

And There's More Downstairs

The partially finished walkout lower level adds another flexible space without being included in the home's stated 1,427 square feet of living area.  Movie room? Music space? Game room? Hobby area? That's up to the next owner.

A third bath, laundry room with utility sink, exterior access and one-car under garage with workspace make the lower level practical as well as useful.

A Different Kind of Square Footage

Not everything that makes a home enjoyable can be measured. Sometimes it's the kitchen where everyone ends up standing around the island. Sometimes it's having a separate place to disappear when you'd like some quiet. And sometimes it's walking outside and realizing you have several different choices about where you'd like to sit.

At 36 Leominster Street, you get all three.