While Wellington Crescent is one of the most desirable places to live in Winnipeg, three factors often dissuade buyers from purchasing a condominium in the area.
The first factor is the price tag. Units routinely sell for $300,000 and higher. Second, the condominium fees are often well in excess of $500, and third, suites can be dated, meaning a significant amount of upgrades is in order.
Those unpalatable factors don't apply to suite 10-390 Wellington Cres., said RE/MAX Professionals' David De Leeuw.
"Even though this complex (which contains only 12 suites, each identical in size at 950 sq. ft.), was built in 1960, its design -- which is considered a classic, mid-century modern design -- was incredibly forward-thinking. Each unit is a good size, filled with light, and the two bedrooms are a good size (master suite 11.6 feet by 11.6 feet, second bedroom 11.6 feet by 9.6 feet), and there's plenty of storage space.
"The building still fits in with today's modern designs with its clean, linear look, huge windows and covered parking stalls beneath the building."
More importantly, unit 10 has been updated to reflect 2014 rather than 1964.
"The updates are only part of the suite's great appeal," said De Leeuw. "Because its original floor plan features an open-concept design -- which was rare in the early 1960s -- there was no need to knock out walls to make it brighter and more functional. It's a timeless design."
Indeed, the suite's front wall is filled with glass - the dining room (no mere afterthought at 11.3 feet by 9.6 feet) was placed next to a collection of large floor-to-ceiling windows and the living room (which measures 16 feet by 13.6 feet) features another wall of glass.
"All the windows produce an interior that's filled with a great amount of natural light," he said. "And not only does light just pour in, but you also get a wonderful view of Munson Park on the Assiniboine River. You can sit in your living room and watch TV and enjoy the view all year-round. There's also a door that leads out to a covered balcony
Now, to the updates. Flooring comes in two forms: newer neutral (taupe) carpeting in the living room and dining room as well as in the two bedrooms. Meanwhile, the kitchen and hallway were decked out in dark (charcoal) laminate hardwoods that are rich and durable.
"In the kitchen, you get an eating nook for one to two next to the (five-foot-wide) entrance, loads of counter space featuring newer bronze/brown laminate countertops, a double stainless sink, newer appliances (ceramic/flat top stove, double door fridge and dishwasher), as well as all kinds of white cabinetry, including a pantry that surrounds the fridge. There's also sufficient aisle width, making the kitchen a space that's easy to navigate," De Leeuw.
The rear of the suite has a secluded bedroom wing, which, by its position, is well-insulated from traffic noise, though there's little if any due to the building's solid cement and steel construction. Newer windows add to the feeling of solitude; whether you're working in the second bedroom (it could serve nicely as a den) or sleeping in the master suite, it's highly unlikely any noise will distract you.
The suite doesn't have an ensuite, but that's of little consequence due to the placement of the four-piece bath.
"It's right next to the master suite, so it's the next best thing to having an ensuite," said De Leeuw.
"The four-piece bath is simply a stunning space, featuring a dark maple vanity with granite countertop and undermounted sink, gorgeous porcelain tile floor and newer, (extra-deep) soaker tub with a textured white porcelain tile surround. It's a wonderful, private space that's ideal to go and soak in the tub at the end of a long day."
Not to be overlooked is the location of the unit, he added.
"From here, you're just a short walk to Little Italy, stores, shops and restaurants on Osborne Street and Assiniboine Park, which is just a short stroll down the Crescent.
"Not only is the complex in a beautiful walkable neighbourhood, but it's literally only 15 minutes from anywhere you need to go by car."
Finally, three key factors make the unit very attractive to single professionals or young couples.
"Nothing in the area touches the style, location and value that this suite offers," he said.
"It's nicely updated, the building is solid and quiet, you're close to everything, condominium fees are reasonable ($397 per month including heat, hot water -- heat is hot water heat -- parking and landscaping) and the price is exceptional. If you're looking for a cool, affordable place to live in this area, you're not going to find a suite that offers near as much value as this one does."
lewys@mts.net
