The Flexibility of the Modern Condo Suite

By Barbara Lawlor

I am continually amazed at how condominium builders and developers come up with innovative suite designs that can accommodate a variety of buyers and lifestyles. One thing all condo purchasers enjoy today is flexibility when it comes to how they “live” in their suites and buildings. Today’s layouts are brilliant, with open-concept spaces that are bright with natural light from massive windows. A little lateral thinking and some creativity when it comes to choosing multi-function furnishings, and you can make any suite do for a number of purposes.

Take a one-bedroom or one-bedroom + den layout, for example. A sofa bed, Murphy bed or day bed in the right spot can transform the space into an instant guest room for overnight visitors. A Murphy bed in particular doesn’t interfere at all with your daytime use of the space. And of course, most condominiums have guest suites available for booking for this purpose as well. A second bedroom can serve as your office, or a den can be turned into a nursery when you start a family.

And when it comes to flexibility, today’s condo kitchens are a dream. Linear kitchens are especially flexible, as they do not involve wall space that cuts into your main living area. They are like a giant, gorgeous wall unit. And the cabinetry and appliances available nowadays are so beautiful that they are like furniture. You can even choose to have appliances integrated into the cabinetry. Some builders offer wood-covered appliances for a very sophisticated look, and we also see a trend toward interspersing stainless steel appliances with the lovely cabinetry.

And let’s talk about islands. An island has to be the most versatile element in a kitchen. Some include cupboards or seating areas under a tabletop. In fact, at FIVE – Condos at 5 St. Joseph, Cecconi Simone Inc. has designed a wonderful two-level island that has both. The counter/cupboard part is the correct height for standing and cooking, while the tabletop section is perfect for chairs or stools. For many suite owners, this choice does away with the need for a dining table. In fact, we see a huge trend away from formal tables for eating. The kitchen island can serve as the buffet table at a party, a drinks station, or simply the spot where you prepare meals while taking an active part in the conversation and camaraderie going on among your guests. Some islands are even on wheels so they can be moved to open up the space even more.

Depending on your passions when it comes to cooking, you can get all sorts of accessories and fixtures to make your kitchen exciting. For example, I have seen stainless steel drawers built in under a coffee station, and special pasta taps installed near the stove. And interesting storage options don’t end at the kitchen. Modern bathrooms make the most of space with items such as fabulous mirrored closets, floor-to-ceiling “medicine” cabinets and more.

All of this is especially important in compact suites. A new layout we are seeing is the one-bedroom + media design, which is bigger than a one-bedroom, but smaller than a one-bedroom + den. It is essentially a suite with a media nook that just fits a computer desk and chair. 

Among the other innovations that make floorplans flexible is the sliding barn door, which can instantly create a private space or open up a bedroom or den to become an extension of the main living area. The doors may be made of glass, opaque glass or wood, and are often situated between the living room and the bedroom at a large window so the expanse of glass creates a stunning effect.

 

The idea is to have fun with your condominium suite, no matter what its size or configuration. An entry hallway can become your art gallery. Spectacular views through large windows become your “wallpaper.” Your suite “lives” the way you want it to!

Barbara Lawlor is president of Baker Real Estate Incorporated and an in-demand columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of condominium developments in the GTA and overseas. Keep current with The Baker Blog at blog.bakerrealestate.com