Posted by: Karim Ali
Coffee with Karim
Top 3 Condo Buildings in Ottawa’s Centretown/Downtown Area
Ottawa’s Centretown and Downtown areas offer a variety of modern condo buildings, each with unique features and amenities. Among these, three standout buildings built after 2000 exemplify the best of urban living in the heart of the capital: 108 Lisgar St, 235/245 Kent St, and 255 Bay St. Here’s a detailed breakdown of my favourite buildings.
Est. reading time: 5-7 mins
108 Lisgar St: The Merit
108 Lisgar St, also known as The Merit, is an upscale condo building developed by Charlesfort. Known for its unbeatable location and elegant architecture, The Merit is a symbol of luxury and sophistication in Ottawa.
Linked here are some examples of what you can expect there.
Key Features
- Stories and Units: The building stands 24 stories tall and houses 219 units. The condos range in size from 610 to 900 square feet.
- Architecture: The building features black granite cladding at its base, complemented by sculpted precast concrete and architectural stainless steel trim, giving it a timeless and opulent appearance.
- Amenities: Residents enjoy a variety of amenities including a fully-equipped gym, underground parking, storage lockers, and secure entry. The building is also smoke-free and pet-friendly, ensuring a comfortable living environment for all.
- Management: The Merit is managed by Capital Integral, known for maintaining high standards of service and building upkeep.
Location
Situated in the heart of the Golden Triangle, 108 Lisgar St provides easy access to the Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill, and the bustling streets of downtown Ottawa. The central location makes it ideal for those who enjoy an active, urban lifestyle with all conveniences within close walking distance.
235/245 Kent St: Hudson Park
235/245 Kent St, part of the Hudson Park development by Charlesfort, is another prime example of quality construction and stylish design. These buildings exude a New York City vibe with their sleek, modern aesthetics and excellent location. Less central in some ways, yet still very much within quick access to all that’s fun in Ottawa.
Key Features
- Stories and Units: These twin towers each have 17 stories and collectively house 197 units. The condos are well-designed with high-quality finishes typical of Charlesfort constructions.
- Architecture: The design is modern and sophisticated, featuring expansive windows that offer stunning city views.
- Amenities: Hudson Park offers a range of amenities including a rooftop terrace, party room, fitness centre, and underground parking. The buildings are also known for their secure entry systems and well-maintained common areas.
- Management: The buildings are well-managed by Condo Management Group, ensuring that residents enjoy a high standard of living with minimal issues.
Location
Located at the intersection of Kent and Laurier, 235/245 Kent St provides easy access to Ottawa’s downtown core. The area is vibrant, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby, making it perfect for those who enjoy an energetic city lifestyle.
255 Bay St: The Bowery
255 Bay St, known as The Bowery, is a modern condo building that attracts a younger, more dynamic crowd. The building is known for its smaller, efficient units and outstanding amenities.
Key Features
- Stories and Units: The Bowery is a high-rise building with 18 stories and 248 units. The units are generally smaller, appealing to young professionals and couples.
- Architecture: The building features a sleek, contemporary design with a focus on maximizing space and functionality within each unit.
- Amenities: The standout feature of The Bowery is its amenities, especially those located on the 18th floor. These include a rooftop pool, a well-equipped gym with a proper squat rack, a sauna, and a party room. The building also offers underground parking and secure entry.
- Management: The building is managed efficiently, ensuring that all amenities and common areas are well-maintained. It’s a newer building, which means a smaller reserve fund for surprises. They’re working on it!
Location
255 Bay St is located in a quieter part of Centretown, in front of Centennial Public School. The location is very accessible, with nearby paths and parks, making it ideal for those who prefer a balance of tranquility and urban convenience.
To Wrap Up
Choosing the right condo in Ottawa’s Centretown/Downtown area depends on your lifestyle preferences and priorities. Whether it’s the luxurious living at 108 Lisgar St, the vibrant urban vibe at 235/245 Kent St, or the dynamic and amenity-rich environment at 255 Bay St, these buildings offer something for everyone. Each of these condos exemplifies quality living in the heart of Ottawa, ensuring that residents enjoy the best the city has to offer.
Bonus tips
1
Keep a log of your faves
As you’re considering condo units, start taking note of your favourite buildings and make sure to keep a close eye on them. Grab a copy of any available status certificates from sellers in those buildings to determine if they’re a wise and safe investment.
2
Demographics of Residents
Consider the demographics of the residents in the building, as they will be your close neighbours and, in some cases, key decision-makers in the building’s management. Understanding the resident profile can help you gauge the community atmosphere and ensure it aligns with your lifestyle and expectations.
609
120