New Westminster area: Portage

Full disclosure: I love the concept of waterfront living and I’m a long-time fan of Port Royal. Lively and engaging, this New Westminster master-planned community is one I’ve watched since the very first homes were built, and every time I visit, it impresses me more.

So when Ameet Johal, director of sales and marketing, tells me the second building of Portage riverside condominiums will be released on Nov. 14, I’m excited. “These homes are all move in ready so you don’t have to wait – just book your movers and get ready to settle in,” she says, adding that floorplans range from one bedroom all the way to spacious three bedrooms with over 1,400 sq. ft. of living space.

Architectural pizzazz

From the street it’s clear Portage is going to be something unique within this one-of-a-kind community. Exteriors are an intriguing marriage of brick, wood, and what appears to be exposed concrete but is really a high tech Nishiha rain screen system. Landscaping, naturally, is lavish and will only get better over time.

Today though, I’m here to see one of the just released, two-level penthouses. In a word, this home is breathtaking. And with three balconies – including a massive terrace off the master bedroom – there’s plenty of options to enjoy views of the Fraser River, the New Westminster city scape, and Port Royal’s many pocket parks all spread out directly outside.

To my delight, like all Portage homes, the living room includes the reclaimed red brick feature walls that’s long been one of my favourite Aragon features. The kitchen is sophisticated and modernist with vertical subway tile, an eye-level integrated microwave in addition to the gas range, tons of storage space, and even a built-in espresso machine – meaning I don’t have to get out of my PJs to savour a great morning latte. Every detail meticulously designed to create an ambiance of luxury with a dash of fun and pure joie de vivre.