150 Wellington Street 413, Guelph

On Saturday at dawn, the kettle whistles in tune with the songbirds' chorus from the lush canopy covering this historic neighbourhood. Steaming mug in hand, they stand on the southeast-facing balcony and savour the stillness before the growing city stirs. Then they retreat to the sanctuary of their den, a versatile space they have made both a private library and media room. It provides calm and a sense of separation from the world's distractions. They need to plan tonight's dinner party! Living at River Mill means the car stays in secure underground parking because the city's best is available on foot. They stroll to the Guelph Farmers Market to gather fresh, local ingredients for their menu, and pick up special items at the boutique grocer a few blocks away. Homeward-bound, they pop into one of the clothiers on Old Quebec Street to buy a new jacket. Before prepping dinner, they decide whether to make a quick cycling trip along the Trans Canada Trail or hike through riverside paths connecting the heart of the city to nature. Their location is a cultural hub where they can readily walk to a gallery opening, visit the new central library, dine at top-end bistros, or catch a performance at the River Run Centre. For special events around the GTA, the nearby GO Station provides a reliable link for a day trip to Toronto. At home, they prepare savoury dishes and then arrange a table for six on their tiled terrace, the suite's crown jewel. They love this space, a private venue for alfresco dining on a lovely evening. River Mill offers a lifestyle that balances sophisticated indoor living and unfettered outdoor freedom. It is a retreat for those who want the vibrancy of a connected urban life without sacrificing the peace of a beautiful two-bedroom suite in a well-managed, friendly building with a terrace made for hosting. Here, Saturday feels like a getaway. This one ends with friendly banter against the soft glow of sunset over the university campus on the horizon.