Life could be good in New Edinburgh as models open at Minto Beechwood. It’s close to downtown but retains a distinct neighbourhood feel. Older homes predominate (the area was founded in 1829) but have made room for a sprinkling of sleek, modern infills that help diversify the community. Walkability – to restaurants, stores and abundant green space – characterize the area.
Minto Communities, which has a flair for snapping up condo-worthy property in the city’s sweet spots such as Westboro and Lansdowne Park, recognized the selling power of New Edinburgh some time ago. It launched its eight-storey Minto Beechwood condominium on Beechwood Avenue just east of the Rideau River in 2013. Sure enough, the 129-unit building with its urbane but accessible facade by Toronto’s TACT Architecture has sold well, and just eight suites remain.
“The majority of home buyers at Minto Beechwood have been empty nesters who are downsizing from single-family homes,” says Jan Coulis, director of marketing.
The inherent appeal of Minto Beechwood to these and other folks will be heightened by the opening of two model apartments.
Elmdale
At 788 square feet, the Elmdale starts at $354,900 and features one bedroom, a den and 1.5 baths. Its rectangular floor plan situates the cosy den about halfway down the hallway opposite the bedroom. The back half of the condo is given over to the open-concept main living area, including an L-shaped kitchen with breakfast bar, living room and access to the balcony overlooking MacKay Street.
To maximize the sense of spaciousness and light, the kitchen has been outfitted with white Shaker cabinetry and Caesarstone counters in an eggshell colour. A travertine tile backsplash adds the texture of stone, while the flooring in the main living area is oak stained in a grey taupe.
Ottawa’s KISS Design, which outfitted both models, has further invigorated the Elmdale with splashes of cheerful deep yellow.
Manor
The two-bedroom-plus-den Manor is a generous 1,105 square feet and starts at $502,900. It features two full baths and a walk-in closet in the master bedroom. The kitchen, dining area and great room occupy the centre of the condo, with bedrooms, den and baths running down the outsides of the unit. The great room sits between the two bedrooms, affording privacy to each. The balcony, where there’s ample room for people and plants, is accessible from both the great room and the master bedroom.
The kitchen is one of the condo’s highlights. It has deep mocha cabinetry, light-coloured counters, and a marble tile backsplash in a herringbone design. L-shaped like the Elmdale’s, it’s roomy with lots of storage space.
Coulis says the response to Minto Beechwood’s kitchens has been upbeat. “Many buyers are coming from single-family homes and are used to family gatherings and entertaining in their kitchens. (This project) was designed specifically with spacious kitchens and plenty of cabinetry to feel like a single-family home.”
Amenities & green features
Minto Beechwood includes a gym, yoga room, dining and lounge area with a kitchen, and a terrace with a barbecue. The building is targeting LEED Silver certification, an assurance of energy efficiency and environmental protection.
