Many who aspire to live the urban lifestyle have come to the same conclusion: While it’s cool to live close to the hustle and bustle downtown, it’s annoying when that racket bombards you as you’re relaxing in your condo after a day at work.
Yet, that's the scenario that many condominium buyers face after spending their savings to be able to walk to work, coffee shops and specialty stores steeped with character. And if the condominium is in a turn-of-the century building, space, as well as sound insulation, can be limited.
That's not the case at Pulse on River Condominiums, 374 River Ave. Thanks to modern construction materials, the suites are quiet, well laid out, and feature a hip, modern decor.
And one of those suites is up for sale, Royal LePage's David De Leeuw says.
It's a custom-designed, one-bedroom unit that features 899 square feet of living space. And in relative serenity, no less.
"That's one of the advantages of buying a condominium in a newly constructed building," he says. "You get the convenience of living right in the middle of things, yet when you come home, you come home to quiet. The walls surrounding this unit are thick with R30 insulation, there are one-and-a-half inches of gypcrete between floors to further dampen sound, and there are triple-pane windows."
Initially slated to be a two-bedroom unit, the former owner decided to expand the great room to make for a larger kitchen, dining area and living room. With a collection of huge windows on the back wall, the open-concept area is awash in natural light and allows for views of the Manitoba legislature, among other landmarks. Noise from the street below the treetop balcony is negligible thanks to the triple-pane glass.
"The decision to enlarge the area was a very good one. The flow between spaces is excellent. If the two-bedroom plan had gone through as planned, the great room area would have been cramped," he says. "You'll also notice that the owner did some nice things -- the floor plan is logical, the finishes are cool, and, best of all, there's all kinds of storage."
That storage comes in two forms: glossy white IKEA cabinets that provide ergonomically efficient storage, and well-placed closets, too. With grey porcelain tile flooring throughout (except in the large bedroom; more about it later), a grey-patterned glass tile backsplash (which is higher than normal) and a built-in computer desk positioned neatly off the living room, the main living area is high in style and efficiency.
"It's ideal for someone who works downtown -- a contemporary, somewhat funky yet high-tech space," De Leeuw says.
"It even comes with a 7.1 surround system to top things off in the great room. It's a very clean, bright area with huge windows, plus you've got a centre island (just the right size) and generous eating area near the balcony door if you enjoy entertaining. The nine-foot ceiling adds to the feeling of space."
Space is also abundant in the master bedroom, which is approximately15 feet by 12 feet. It's also been placed near the front of the suite, which positions it away from the street below. A large, window has been recessed to further reduce noise. There's even room for placement of a reading chair (or desk) by the window. Closet space is also plentiful.
"The storage in this room is incredible. The double closet has wire racks to aid with organization, and there's another closet to store shoes," he adds. "There's also more storage off the (long, wide) hallway, as well as a big, four-piece bathroom across from the bedroom, as well as a laundry room that comes equipped with a Bosch washer and dryer. It's just an exceptional layout."
In short, says De Leeuw, everything a professional would need to live the urban lifestyle: a great location, quiet interior, space and storage aplenty and cutting-edge style.
"Just move in and start enjoying the lifestyle," he says.
DETAILS
Address: 504-374 River Ave., Pulse on River Condominiums
Year Built: 2009
Style: Apartment-style condominium
Size: 899 sq. ft. (of livable space)
Bedrooms: 1
Bathrooms: 1
Selling price: $269,900 (includes all appliances and blinds)
Condominium fees: $245 (includes all utilities)
Amenities: On-site gym, party room with kitchen, fireplace and private viewing room, heated underground parking Contact: David De Leeuw or Cheryl Thurston @ 989-5000
