It's something that comes up very rarely: a home that offers the chance to be part of a historic neighbourhood, while offering cutting-edge style and amenities.
Where is this home? On the top floor of Sky Waterfront Condominiums, suite 704, 340 Waterfront Dr.
In other words, it's a penthouse suite that offers young professionals a seamless combination of space, style, utility and location, says Century 21 Bachman & Associates' Mark Chubey.
"This is a gorgeous unit that has a lot going for it," he says. "First, it has 1,257 sq. ft. of living space, high ceilings (approximately nine feet) and features superb finishes throughout. It's a real luxury condominium designed with the young, urban professional in mind."
Unlike similar condominiums in other cities -- let's use Toronto as an example -- suite 704 is no puny shoebox filled with high-end finishes to distract you from the cold, hard fact it's a postage stamp of a dwelling (never mind that it's downtown). Not to mention the fact you get a million-dollar view for under $400,000.
To the contrary, this is a condominium that makes excellent use of the available space. For example, the foyer is wide (four-feet plus) with a double closet alongside to the left. To the right is a huge storage room with space enough to house a stackable washer and dryer and essentials that need to be stored inside the suite for quick access.
There's also additional storage available in the heated underground parking area downstairs, a welcome bonus. Additional amenities include an owners' party lounge, fitness centre and rooftop patio.
The next element that comes at you in an understated manner is style. With espresso maple hardwoods, grey granite counter tops, a multi-coloured glass tile backsplash, espresso (maple veneer) cabinetry and a colour palette of brown earth tones, the interior feel is suitably rich and warm.
An extra element of style exists on the suite's rear wall. Filled with a host of large windows: it provides a panoramic view of the Exchange District's collection of historic buildings through three huge windows on the right-hand side; to the left, two equally sizable windows allow you to gaze out over the Red River, with the elegant Esplanade Riel framed perfectly by the far left-hand window.
"The suite faces south, so you have the sun all day long. And at night, you get a beautiful view of downtown. The Esplanade Riel and river look simply spectacular," Chubey says. "Plus there's a good-sized balcony where you and friends can enjoy a cold beverage when you're entertaining."
Because the suite is over 1,200 square feet in size, entertaining is a viable option -- with a big dining area (large enough for a table for six or more plus buffet) and an island kitchen (the island is about eight feet in length, and can seat two to three) -- there's room for the owner(s) and guests to move around without feeling boxed in. There's also a built-in granite computer desk at the far end of the kitchen, by the living room.
If you enjoy cooking, the kitchen is ergonomically sound with wide aisles, an island to prepare food on and newer stainless steel appliances (fridge, stove, microwave and dishwasher) to store and cook your vittles and clean the dishes when you repair to the adjacent living room for dessert and a hot beverage apres diner. There's plenty of room for furniture and the requisite (huge) flat panel TV -- and the view to enjoy.
"Even though it's an open-concept plan, there's enough space for the spaces (dining area, living room and kitchen) to be separate areas," he says. "It's a great place to be, and to entertain."
Likewise, suite 704 is a great place to work or get eight hours of solid shut-eye. Thanks to steel and concrete construction, new windows and excellent soundproofing between units, the building is exceptionally quiet. Consequently, the bedroom wing, set away from all the action to the left of the foyer (along with a four-piece bathroom), offers a spot to do some work or get some much-needed rest.
"This unit is considered to be one bedroom plus a den," he adds. "Right now, the den (which has a double closet) is being used as a bedroom. The master bedroom is larger than normal with a large master bedroom and big window, and the bathroom has been placed conveniently between the two bedrooms. It's a really good use of space."
Close to work downtown as well as sports attractions (Goldeyes, Moose and perhaps Jets) plus restaurants and shopping, suite 704 is a hip, stylish and well-located housing option for successful young professionals.
lewys@mts.net
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DETAILS
Address: 704-340 Waterfront Dr., Sky Waterfront Condominiums
Size: 1,257 sq. ft.
Style: Apartment-style penthouse suite
Year Built: 2009
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 1
Price: $389,900
Contact: Mark Chubey or Kylie Chubey, Century 21 Bachman & Associates @ 453-7653
