A world of a design in today's new condos

The concept of “design” is intricately woven into the tapestry of today’s new condominiums. In fact, design is at the forefront of a new condo from concept through to completion and beyond. Consider the following.

• When a developer purchases a property, a vision for community design sets an overall approach to the steps that follow. Of course, a lot of this is determined by the municipality in which the property lies. But urban design has come a long way in creating optimal lifestyles for potential condo purchasers.

• The exteriors of condominiums are designed using both technical and artistic techniques. Certainly, the façade of the building(s) should be appealing to the target market(s), but they also have to be feasible from construction and sustainability aspects. Fortunately for us in Canada, we are blessed with world-class architects who understand how to create timeless looks.

• Speaking of architecture, landscaping new condominiums has become an art unto itself. It is a complicated process designing the kinds of plant material and a landscape plan that will complement the building(s) and thrive during our four seasons. Drive around and look at completed condos any time of the year, and you will see how much landscaping adds to their ambience.

• Design is reaching new international levels as well when it comes to residence amenities. Nowadays, these shared spaces span both indoor and outdoor spaces. From fabulous party rooms to fitness facilities, libraries, theatres, pet spas and swimming pools to rooftop lounges, barbecues and dining areas, the amenities carry through the style set by the exterior. First and foremost, the lobby invites residents and guests into a special world – and oh, how beautiful these welcoming spaces are! Remember, too, that even the security system in a condo has to be designed to benefit residents the best way possible.

• Suites are nothing short of innovative genius today, with even the most compact of layouts “living” larger than its square footage might suggest. Interior designers have pulled out all the stops to maximize the space in every suite and to offer features and finishes that provide luxury and comfort. Linear kitchens, open-concept main living areas, flexible spaces … with a little imagination on the part of the owners, the possibilities are limitless.

• Lifestyle design may also include unexpected extras such as recreation directors, gardening programs, fitness classes, etc. The idea is to make each condo feel like “home” to the breadth of suite owners.

• I can also tell you that people on the sidelines in ad agencies, public relations firms and sales and marketing companies design their campaigns to parallel the original vision for each condominium.

So, you can see that “design” is one word that has multiple connotations in new condo real estate. As consumer needs and expectations change, so, too, does design get altered to accommodate them. This is truly a fascinating industry, and I am proud to be part of it.