LeBreton Flats | 14 fl (Ph.1)|Completed | 13 fl (Ph.2)|Completed

[Luker]

What a waste of land...

[Lakche]

Is there any information as to when Phase 3 will begin construction?

[blackjagger]

Is there any information as to when Phase 3 will begin construction?

I could be wrong, but I heard something about sales this fall for Phase 3. So depending on how fast that happens I would assume a start of spring 2011. Should be a pretty quick build as well just do to the lack of height. I would like them to keep pushing so they can get to the phases with commerical to make the area more livable.

Cheers,
Josh

[waterloowarrior]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/4624780969_537a5d1e8e_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4038/4625398496_9064d800b8_b.jpg

[K-133]

Some shots from the 6th floor with others to follow…

Unit 611 – South-West corner of the building

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_dsjnAiS9Wv4/S_aTLxRJ0bI/AAAAAAAABEA/22JZepZorDU/s800/DSC_0054.JPG

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[K-133]

Unit 621 – Unit directly above the breezeway / East-West Facing

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_dsjnAiS9Wv4/S_aS6qjU5LI/AAAAAAAABDc/ApY_4EeeBNU/s800/DSC_0047.JPG

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http://lh4.ggpht.com/_dsjnAiS9Wv4/S_aTK39SZuI/AAAAAAAABD4/AtN0lM360PM/s800/DSC_0052.JPG

[K-133]

Unit 601 - NW corner

Great view of the river and the hill for the price! (875 Sq-ft $300,000 + parking)


http://lh3.ggpht.com/_dsjnAiS9Wv4/S_bMCKKYfLI/AAAAAAAABFA/sjoHK92NiRU/DSC_0038%20%28Small%29.JPG

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_dsjnAiS9Wv4/S_bMCHHPGPI/AAAAAAAABFE/7b1jG3yELdU/DSC_0039%20%28Small%29.JPG

This was from 602 but demonstrates the view:
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_dsjnAiS9Wv4/S_bMntJ4URI/AAAAAAAABFc/9E42P35IsHQ/DSC_0030%20%28Small%29.JPG

[K-133]

Unit 602 - NE Corner

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_dsjnAiS9Wv4/S_bMnf5_R3I/AAAAAAAABFQ/8pmm7QiRqos/DSC_0024%20%28Small%29.JPG

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http://lh5.ggpht.com/_dsjnAiS9Wv4/S_bMntJ4URI/AAAAAAAABFc/9E42P35IsHQ/DSC_0030%20%28Small%29.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_dsjnAiS9Wv4/S_bMuqbwOwI/AAAAAAAABFs/L37UugkXpkc/DSC_0044%20%28Small%29.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_dsjnAiS9Wv4/S_bMn5nWmXI/AAAAAAAABFg/6s_RDmZIFis/DSC_0031%20%28Small%29.JPG

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[condo_dreams]

I think that last picture is a great snapshot of what living on the Flats is supposed to be all about. I mean, in terms of the views, water, greenery, etc. as well as the proximity to the Hill and the rest of Downtown.

Thanks for posting these pics.

[kwoldtimer]

I think that last picture is a great snapshot of what living on the Flats is supposed to be all about. I mean, in terms of the views, water, greenery, etc. as well as the proximity to the Hill and the rest of Downtown.

Thanks for posting these pics.

I guess I should have paid more attention when the development proposals were first made. I had assumed that the Flats would become a vibrant urban community, filled with shops and restaurants and pubs, and drawing in lots of pedestrians, especially along the canal. As these first phases come together, I find it all rather lifeless and sterile (albeit with some stellar views from some units). Nice for people who want to live quietly in parkland, but hardly a strong addition to Ottawa's urban fabric. So far, I am very disappointed, especially since I had been considering purchasing there myself.

[AuxTown]

I guess I should have paid more attention when the development proposals were first made. I had assumed that the Flats would become a vibrant urban community, filled with shops and restaurants and pubs, and drawing in lots of pedestrians, especially along the canal. As these first phases come together, I find it all rather lifeless and sterile (albeit with some stellar views from some units). Nice for people who want to live quietly in parkland, but hardly a strong addition to Ottawa's urban fabric. So far, I am very disappointed, especially since I had been considering purchasing there myself.

There's no question that it's gonna be a real neighbourhood someday, but it is going to take at least 20 years. They haven't even finished the first building of phase 1 yet and there is currently no retail (nor should there be given the current population), so we need to give it some time. Once phase 1 is complete there will be 4 large towers, midrise apartments with groundlevel retail, and townhouses. I imagine it'll start getting a neighbourhood feel around that time but, until then, everyone's gonna need some patience. Unfortunately, Ottawa doesn't have the condo demand of Toronto or Vancouver so building all at once is not an option....even Vancouver had to be bailed out when they built the False Creek condos for the Olympics.

[condo_dreams]

There's no question that it's gonna be a real neighbourhood someday, but it is going to take at least 20 years. They haven't even finished the first building of phase 1 yet and there is currently no retail (nor should there be given the current population), so we need to give it some time. Once phase 1 is complete there will be 4 large towers, midrise apartments with groundlevel retail, and townhouses. I imagine it'll start getting a neighbourhood feel around that time but, until then, everyone's gonna need some patience. Unfortunately, Ottawa doesn't have the condo demand of Toronto or Vancouver so building all at once is not an option....even Vancouver had to be bailed out when they built the False Creek condos for the Olympics.

I think you're both right in what you're saying. It will definitely take some time before there are enough people and traffic in the area so that retail, restaurants etc. set up shop there.

The disappointing part of course is that the buildings themselves aren't anywhere near appealing enough on their own to get people to flock to the Flats... but I guess that point has been beaten to death by now.

I do hope that down the line, the Flats will eventually be home to various small one-of-a-kind pubs, restaurants and stores rather than just a strip-mall with one or two large anchor stores like SDM and/or Loblaws or something.

[kwoldtimer]

Hope so, but I still think it is unfortunate not to have made even the first buildings mixed use at street level. As things stand now, there will soon be hundreds of people living in an "island" where you can't even buy a newspaper or cup of coffee - the antithesis of urban living in my book.

[K-133]

Hope so, but I still think it is unfortunate not to have made even the first buildings mixed use at street level. As things stand now, there will soon be hundreds of people living in an "island" where you can't even buy a newspaper or cup of coffee - the antithesis of urban living in my book.

If you build it, they will not come. The flats will take dacades to complete. And unfortunately, coffee shops and urban stores cannot survive with a couple of hundred people. We won't see the existing coffee shop sized store occupied until phase 3 or 4 close.

Remember that what claridge has planned is only a fraction of what the ncc are hoping to see.

[kwoldtimer]

.......Remember that what claridge has planned is only a fraction of what the ncc are hoping to see.

Indeed, and that is only a fraction of what it could have been. :(

[ajldub]

How about what it still could be: home to a new CFL club, the 67's, and the future home of the sens? Or is that idea just too fantastic?

[harls]

That Hydro box sticks out like a sore thumb in those pics. Sort or ruins the view, like an annoying little speck on your glasses.

[K-133]

That Hydro box sticks out like a sore thumb in those pics. Sort or ruins the view, like an annoying little speck on your glasses.


It certainly does! Its not a hydro box though. Its storage boxes for the kayakers.

[Davis137]

Is it permanent? If it is, they should have some trees or a garden around it to hide it a little bit...

Awesome pictures of the buildings and their interior units...this site/location isn't bad at all. I think if there is some more retail integrated into the immediate area (like in PH3 or somewhere along booth) will make it a real winner.

[K-133]

Is it permanent? If it is, they should have some trees or a garden around it to hide it a little bit...

Awesome pictures of the buildings and their interior units...this site/location isn't bad at all. I think if there is some more retail integrated into the immediate area (like in PH3 or somewhere along booth) will make it a real winner.

I have no idea if there are plans to clean / pretty it up. It irks me every time I look out my window though. There has to be better options - planting some greenery is a fairly good idea. Relocating it would be a better idea though. Maybe the the end of the road where the tour buses park?

[Davis137]

Yeah, I agree...they should have made that canal thingy there between fleet street and LF more useful as an actual canal with a proper launch for canoes/kayaks (you guys can jump in and correct me if there already is stuff like that in place, or if it's not a canal at all).

[eemy]

I don't know if we're talking about the same spot, but there is a training area for whitewater canoeing/kayaking along there.

[Richard Eade]

Yeah, I agree...they should have made that canal thingy there between fleet street and LF more useful as an actual canal with a proper launch for canoes/kayaks (you guys can jump in and correct me if there already is stuff like that in place, or if it's not a canal at all).
The "canal thingy", to use your technical term;), is an aqueduct to bring water to the Fleet Street Pumping Station. There is also a large diameter pipe running under the aqueduct, supplying more water. This water is then used to turn turbines which mechanically pump up to 50% of the city's pre-processed water (potable water, gravity/suction fed from the Lemieux Water Plant) through the distribution system.

And, yes, the tail race from the aqueduct water appears to make an excellent practice area for white-water kayaking.

[Uhuniau]

I think that last picture is a great snapshot of what living on the Flats is supposed to be all about. I mean, in terms of the views, water, greenery, etc. as well as the proximity to the Hill and the rest of Downtown.

Thanks for posting these pics.

I thought it was supposed to be a new piece of urban fabric, not Towers in a Park 2000.

Groundhogs don't exactly spice up the neighbourhood, unless you are a groundhog yourself.

[Uhuniau]

It certainly does! Its not a hydro box though. Its storage boxes for the kayakers.


Must. Eradicate. All signs. Of human. Habitation.

More grass. More trees. More grass. More trees.

[condo_dreams]

I thought it was supposed to be a new piece of urban fabric, not Towers in a Park 2000.

Groundhogs don't exactly spice up the neighbourhood, unless you are a groundhog yourself.

Haha, hey I certainly hope it's not going to be nothing but grass all around forever. However, I do like having the mix of greenery, water, etc. as a view to look at. That was always supposed to be one of the positives of this development/location.

I am certainly more hopeful of the Flats turning into more of a living space for 'humans', but we've already seen a million posts on how that should/will eventually occur. I guess it will take a while before we can judge the finished product as typically disappointing or pleasantly awful, haha.

[condo_dreams]

Just an update: Phase 2 purchasers were asked to submit their choices for upgrades, wood, etc by June 15th. Cheers.

[K-133]

Just an update: Phase 2 purchasers were asked to submit their choices for upgrades, wood, etc by June 15th. Cheers.

Scheduled move in dates average in the April time frame - just one month delayed from the previous schedule.

[yyz1971]

Scheduled move in dates average in the April time frame - just one month delayed from the previous schedule.


You mean two years delayed from the previous schedule. My original move-in date was December 15, 2009!!!

[K-133]

You mean two years delayed from the previous schedule. My original move-in date was December 15, 2009!!!

I meant previous, not original.

[rodionx]

I have no idea if there are plans to clean / pretty it up. It irks me every time I look out my window though. There has to be better options - planting some greenery is a fairly good idea. Relocating it would be a better idea though. Maybe the the end of the road where the tour buses park?

Yes, they should move the kayak storage box to the top of the hill or otherwise out of the way. That hill offers the best (only?) sledding in the downtown area, and there's a huge ugly box blocking off the best runs.

[waterloowarrior]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4117/4786308533_ca5281c5a2.jpg
10 July 2010, photo by me

[Davis137]

I actually like the glass greenhouse look of the first tower better than the sand-coloured brick on the 2nd one...

[Luker]

1 & 2

Lets be real here, these are two of the worst designed buildings and units in the last decade, maybe two in ottawa from the interior, to the exterior, the overall ammenidities, placement, and slow construction rate, infused with an extremely lagging overall development plan for the Claridge portion of Lebreton, and the large adjacent land to the west which is slowly and ill-wittingly wasting time on behalf of the NCC for no reason....

It REALLY is a shame the beginning to a new Lebreton was written by a irresponsible NCC, and a incoherent and cheap Claridge. :( :-( 8~{

[condo_dreams]

I've heard that they may no longer use the ugly brick colour in future phases of this development. If that's true, that can only be good news.

[kwoldtimer]

I've heard that they may no longer use the ugly brick colour in future phases of this development. If that's true, that can only be good news.

Unless they have found an even uglier brick colour! :D

[MaxHeadroom]

The NCC established a colour palette for the entire development when it was in the RFP stage. I don't know if they're still adhering to it.

[cityguy]

I totally agree,there both butt ugly.

[blackjagger]

http://img830.imageshack.us/img830/4275/img2871b.jpg (http://img830.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img2871b.jpg)

http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/7929/img2872i.jpg (http://img821.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img2872i.jpg)

http://img837.imageshack.us/img837/5900/img2874k.jpg (http://img837.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img2874k.jpg)

http://img833.imageshack.us/img833/4526/img2875j.jpg (http://img833.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img2875j.jpg)

I spoke with one of the salespersons. It looks like phase 3 will go on sale this fall (end of august/september) with occupancy in 2 years.

Cheers,
Josh

[condo_dreams]

Could someone explain to me what that ugly thing near the top of the building/tower (2nd picture) is? Is that something temporary?

[AuxTown]

Could someone explain to me what that ugly thing near the top of the building/tower (2nd picture) is? Is that something temporary?

I would like to think it is temporary though it is looking rather permanent :(

[K-133]

I would like to think it is temporary though it is looking rather permanent :(

This section is a window to allow the 01 units on the top two floors to have a peak at parliament and the down river views. It will be all glass and framing when its complete.

[flatsquestions]

Scheduled move in dates average in the April time frame - just one month delayed from the previous schedule.
Hello K133, Based on your previous posts, I believe you live in Tower 1. I have reserved a unit in Phase 2, and I was wondering if you have any advice for prospective buyers, especially concerning the quality of the construction (in-suite and common areas). Many thanks in advance!

[K-133]

Hi Flatquestions.

There are a number of units in Tower 1 still available to see. I'd recommend that you go to the sales office, and see for yourself.

My opinion however, is that the finishing is typical Claridge. The finish is clean and fairly well constructed, but keep in mind that they are building for value. There is little attention to detail, but the quality is good enough to feel very proud of your home. This is fairly relevant when you compare something which Charlesfort constructs and designs as an example, versus what Claridge builds.

What is also noticeable is the cost - both purchase costs and continuous cost of ownership. Condo fees in tower 1 were around 32 cents per square foot (following a recent hike). This include heat, A/C, and amenities (hot tub, sauna, gym, etc...). Again, this is typical and speaks to Claridge's apparent drive for value.

What makes Tower 1 and 2 stand out over Claridge's other buildings, and even the more 'elite' buildings in the city is the uniqueness of its feel. While living there, nothing felt better. Honestly, its calm and relaxing. And the views are magnificent. Can't wait to get back there!

With all of that said, keep in mind that there are a number of owners in the building who have spent some good money to put those detailed finishing touches on their units.

As for the whole feel of the building - it is a very diverse group of people. You seem to have met someone new every week, and yet see only a few people a week.

The general common area is fairly bland and could definitely use a bit of spice - likely due to a fairly unimaginative condo board. This due to a fairly low level of activity throughout the building in general. I'd give it a few years for the sense of community and pride in community ownership to boom a bit higher. Perhaps a reflection of the developing nature of the area itself.

[waterloowarrior]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4140/4894705108_f432ab5ca8_z.jpg
14 August 2010 by me

[waterloowarrior]

13 august 2010 by dugspr (flickr) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dugspr/4892368394/)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4892368394_0a887c543a_b.jpg

[Davis137]

That ravine shot is awesome! The entire complex looks a LOT better integrated into the hillside like that, and I never realized the ravine was almost like a gorge back there...it's deeper than it looks when seen from other angles...

[Traveler]

Could someone explain to me what that ugly thing near the top of the building/tower (2nd picture) is? Is that something temporary?

Here's some recent pictures with the glass installed.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4135/4899127375_a7d8fd4f31.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53065155@N05/4899127375/)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4138/4899720592_4b7a623419.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53065155@N05/4899720592/)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4143/4899720414_de0f953e72.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53065155@N05/4899720414/)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4118/4899799956_a656c8b8f6.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53065155@N05/4899799956/)

[condo_dreams]

Wow, that doesn't do much to make it look much better to me... I hope the view from inside is worth it; I suppose the owners will never have to look at it at least.

[reidjr]

Does anyone know what the complete plans are for the flats.

[K-133]

Does anyone know what the complete plans are for the flats.

As in the entire flats, or the section which Claridge purchased?

Both are buried within this thread.

[AuxTown]

Does anyone know what the complete plans are for the flats.

The plans are in the .pdf's at the bottom of this page.

Does anyone know when Phase 3 will be released? I am very interested in one of the townhouses that will face the aquaduct.

[blackjagger]

The plans are in the .pdf's at the bottom of this page.

Does anyone know when Phase 3 will be released? I am very interested in one of the townhouses that will face the aquaduct.

When I was at the sales centre acouple of weeks ago the sales rep said this fall. So take it with a grain of salt but I would assume before the new year.

Cheers,
Josh

[condo_dreams]

I happened to be driving by here yesterday evening after work and I have to say the buildings in their entirety look quite nice in the evening sunlight. I wish I had brought my camera with me, but I'm happy to say that at least certain aspects of it are growing on me.

K133's comments above ring true though, there's hardly any life at all around the area! Considering the proximity to Parliament and downtown, I would have expected a little more foot-traffic. From all I've heard, the Firefighters' Monument sure isn't going to change that.

Another negative would be the courtyard currently in between the two buildings. Would anyone know if that stands to be landscaped much, MUCH, more?

[Traveler]

K133's comments above ring true though, there's hardly any life at all around the area! Considering the proximity to Parliament and downtown, I would have expected a little more foot-traffic. From all I've heard, the Firefighters' Monument sure isn't going to change that.


There's only one phase open and the buildings are basically surrounded by empty space. There's nothing to really generate any foot traffic except for the few residents that live there now. Most visitors to the war museum arrive by car or tour bus. It will eventually get better as new phases are completed but it's never going to be like the Byward Market / Glebe / Elgin or Bank Streets which have been around for many, many decades.

The only thing that might change the dynamics of the Flats would be a MAJOR sports / entertainment / shopping complex on the west side of Booth Street that would attract lots of activity and pubs, restaurants, shops, etc. - but I somehow doubt that the city / NCC would ever allow that to happen on the Flats. I think they're more interested in densification through residential and light commercial development for that area.


Another negative would be the courtyard currently in between the two buildings. Would anyone know if that stands to be landscaped much, MUCH, more?

They'll clean it up when Phase II is done and maybe add a couple of more trees and shrubs, but I really wouldn't expect too much. The trees in the courtyard will be nice in 5-10 years when they grow in. Ultimately it will be up to the two condo boards to decide whether to make any major landscaping changes or upgrades to the courtyard.

Personally, anything that they might do within the courtyard pales in comparison with the natural landscape available within steps of the building along the aqueduct, Ottawa river, pathways, Wellington, etc. For me that's the beauty of the Flats - surrounded by natural beauty but within a 15 min walk from downtown Ottawa and Hull/Gatineau.

[flatsquestions]

Thank you for the information K-133. It was very useful. I have decided to reserve a unit. The area is very empty right now but that should change in about a decade or so (maybe more). In the meantime, downtown is fairly close, as is Chinatown and Preston.

[condo_dreams]

Absolutely right, for all of the development's negatives, you cannot argue with its fantastic location! Congratulations on your decision!

[waterloowarrior]

Winning firefighter memorial unveiled (http://www.ottawacitizen.com/Winning+firefighter+memorial+unveiled/3501030/story.html)

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/3501070.bin?size=620x400

[condo_dreams]

Drove by here recently, and noticed a thick metallic frame around the windows on the top floors of the second phase's podium... is there a particular reason for this, and is it temporary or permanent? It looks terrible IMO.

[K-133]

Drove by here recently, and noticed a thick metallic frame around the windows on the top floors of the second phase's podium... is there a particular reason for this, and is it temporary or permanent? It looks terrible IMO.

Permanent.

It looks great from the inside though :)

[condo_dreams]

Have you been inside any of the second phase units K133? I was about to ask the folks at the sales centre for a walkthrough, but I wasn't sure whether I would be allowed.

[K-133]

Have you been inside any of the second phase units K133? I was about to ask the folks at the sales centre for a walkthrough, but I wasn't sure whether I would be allowed.

If you're really intent on buying, you can push the sales office to get you a walk-through. And I definitely recommend it to compare even one floor from the next.

[condo_dreams]

Just FYI: Phase 3 sales won't begin until Spring 2011.

[Ottawan]

Just FYI: Phase 3 sales won't begin until Spring 2011.

That really frustrates me! How much slower can they take this development? Sales on a first building in Phase 3 were supposed to be this fall, with the rest next spring.

I think the NCC should accept RFPs for the next block of the plan and allow another developer to start work on their own set of condos. A bit of competition would be healthy, and might get things moving a bit faster.

[McC]

That really frustrates me! How much slower can they take this development? ... A bit of competition would be healthy, and might get things moving a bit faster.

Agreed! I walk past Bayview and the Flats on my way into work each day, and the vacant, razed lots (and absence of shelter and shade) are tiresome to say the least.

[K-133]

With growth expected to slow down, I don't doubt that the Flats will move much more quickly even if the NCC decided to release more land. This is a multi decade project and patience is needed.

I would project that Claridge would be completed its planned development as follows:

2011-2014 - Phase 3
2013-2016 - Phase 4
2015-2018 - Phase 5

Once these are completed, and assuming demand still exists, I think you'll see quicker development of the remaining land. Demand for the existing phases is fairly good, but I'd still consider it somewhat slow. Though, Phase 3 being rather small in comparison, may sell out a bit quicker.

[waterloowarrior]

some Lebreton flats stuff at the next NCC board meeting
http://www.capcan.ca/data/2/rec_docs/25500_20101124-Public-agenda.pdf

[McC]

Confirmation that the plans for the next phase have been approved (NCC calls it Phase II, but I guess that by Claridge's count these buildings would be Phases III, IV and V?):
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/ottawa/gives+next+phase+LeBreton+development/3879362/story.html
My favourite part is the way the last sentence of the first paragraph says that the plans "will see more than 160 new homes built over the next two years" and the last sentence of the second paragraph says that "If all goes well, construction will begin in 2012." (and all 160 units will be complete by November 2012? doubt it!)

There's also some unsatisfying and unresolved back-and-forth over whether Claridge has met the design requirements for the second podium building.

clusterfudge, my least-favourite flavour.

[reidjr]

Confirmation that the plans for the next phase have been approved (NCC calls it Phase II, but I guess that by Claridge's count these buildings would be Phases III, IV and V?):
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/ottawa/gives+next+phase+LeBreton+development/3879362/story.html
My favourite part is the way the last sentence of the first paragraph says that the plans "will see more than 160 new homes built over the next two years" and the last sentence of the second paragraph says that "If all goes well, construction will begin in 2012." (and all 160 units will be complete by November 2012? doubt it!)

There's also some unsatisfying and unresolved back-and-forth over whether Claridge has met the design requirements for the second podium building.

clusterfudge, my least-favourite flavour.

I just hope it gets done on time from the citizen the pic looks nice and will help the area.

[McC]

I just hope it gets done on time from the citizen the pic looks nice and will help the area.

what does "done on time" even mean anymore for this project? (It's like Jim Flaherty saying that this year's federal deficit is smaller than previously forecast: http://www2.macleans.ca/2010/11/24/the-commons-yelling-into-the-abyss/)

[gjhall]

This will certainly make the area feel a bit more urban and hopefully those are commercial spaces on the ground floor?

[Ottawan]

Sadly no commercial in this phase. In the next block there are live/work townhomes, but it is only the buildings fronting Booth that will have groud floor commercial (and at this rate, we're at least 5 years from the first of those).

[kevinbottawa]

Does anyone know why they're only putting commercial space along Booth St? Fleet St. and Lett St. would've been a nice place for commercial space especially with that pedestrian space where they intersect called "Pooley's Bridge Mews".

[reidjr]

what does "done on time" even mean anymore for this project? (It's like Jim Flaherty saying that this year's federal deficit is smaller than previously forecast: http://www2.macleans.ca/2010/11/24/the-commons-yelling-into-the-abyss/)

Maybe bad wording what i mean is if they get started in 2012 i will be happy.

[McC]

Maybe bad wording what i mean is if they get started in 2012 i will be happy.

fair enough :-)

[condo_dreams]

Phase 2 owners received a notice that registration of the condo would occur by the end of Q1 2011. Definitely faster than we were originally told to expect, so maybe they CAN do some things right on this site.

[Traveler]

They've started calling Phase 2 residents to come into the office to sign an amendment to confirm your parking spot allocation (pre-assigned) and to choose a storage locker (first come first served).

There are a handful of storage lockers slightly larger than the standard ones - so if that's of interest to you, I'd suggest going in asap to reserve your storage locker.

[K-133]

They've started calling Phase 2 residents to come into the office to sign an amendment to confirm your parking spot allocation (pre-assigned) and to choose a storage locker (first come first served).

There are a handful of storage lockers slightly larger than the standard ones - so if that's of interest to you, I'd suggest going in asap to reserve your storage locker.

There are about 8-10 lockers on floors 1 through 6. 5 of these lockers are larger than the general - 2 of those being very large.

Phase 2 owners received a notice that registration of the condo would occur by the end of Q1 2011. Definitely faster than we were originally told to expect, so maybe they CAN do some things right on this site.

I was told that they plan to have the building registered before people move in. I don't quite understand how they plan to achieve this...

[ServiceGuy]

I was told that they plan to have the building registered before people move in. I don't quite understand how they plan to achieve this...

Technically it would be possible if Claridge still owned more units in the building than had been sold but I don't think that is the case. I will have to do some digging to confirm.

[andrewd77]

They've started calling Phase 2 residents to come into the office to sign an amendment to confirm your parking spot allocation (pre-assigned) and to choose a storage locker (first come first served).

There are a handful of storage lockers slightly larger than the standard ones - so if that's of interest to you, I'd suggest going in asap to reserve your storage locker.

Thank you for posting this! I got in just in time to choose the exact one I wanted. I was able to note some of the sizes that the lockers are available in (measured in Meters):

- 1.7m x 0.9m
- 2.0m x 1.3m
- 2.5m x 1.1m
- 1.8m x 1.1m
- 2.0m x 1.2m
- 2.0m x 1.1m

I think those are the dimensions of all the options, unless I accidentally missed one. At least now you can think about any specific needs that you may have, before you go in to sign the papers. I recommend going in whenever you can, they're calling everyone on the list but you are allowed to choose whenever you wish.

Hopefully they won't be angry that I posted this online? If anyone thinks so, I can delete the post. :cheers:

[andrewd77]

In case anyone is curious about the mailing address for this place...

250 Lett Street
K1R 0A8

(The 1st tower is 200 Lett, K1R 0A7)

[condo_dreams]

I believe Phase 2 residents have (finally) begun moving in. Anyone care to share their experiences so far, and thoughts on the interior and common areas?

[AuxTown]

My friend moved in on the weekend. I am very impressed with the quality that I've seen so far with the project. The common areas are still under construction, but they look quite spacious and have good quality materials. I'm not sure how much my friend upgraded, but her unit had some really nice finishings as well. One thing that surprised me was the STANDARD frameless shower with 10mm glass in the 2nd bathroom, it looks great!

[flatsquestions]

I have not moved in yet but I have inspected my unit. I was pleased with what I saw. There were some small details that need to be looked at but overall I was very happy. The pool and the gym will take some more time to finish but I think that they will turn out well. The locker space seems adequate and there is a lot of space for bikes.
I will be going there again next week for an information session on the mechanical parking.

Does anyone here know when the building will be registered. I received a letter a few months ago indicating that the transfer of property may take place at the first closing. It appears that this will no longer be so, at least as far as my closing date is concerned.

[Traveler]

Any idea whether other floors (in the tower section) are accessible and whether they installed locks on the condos still under construction?

[condo_dreams]

Has anyone heard anything further with respect to the condo being registered before the end of Q1 2011 as originally hoped?

Also, anything new on sales for the next phase?

[andrewd77]

Any idea whether other floors (in the tower section) are accessible and whether they installed locks on the condos still under construction?

As far as I know, all upper floors are off limits unless you're a construction worker. All locks are already in place for each unit, but I don't know if they have been using them to keep people out of the finished/cleaned units. I will let you know this coming weekend.


Has anyone heard anything further with respect to the condo being registered before the end of Q1 2011 as originally hoped?

Also, anything new on sales for the next phase?

The closing they were referring to for end of Q1 was the interim closing, which basically just means placing the title in your name and giving them interim occupancy fees (rent) until they can finish the rest of the building and move people in. I don't know when the final closing will be, I expect at some point over the Summer at the latest.

I heard from a Claridge employee that sales for Phase 3 would begin either Spring or early Summer. It looks like they've converted the original Sales Center into a Design Center, and the new sales center will be on the ground floor of Phase 2 (or the other way around).

[K-133]

I did a walk through. Some standard deficiencies...scratches etc...

One item of notes were a broken seals around one of windows. If you're doing a walk through, check all of the corners.

I'm also concerned with the multitude of those parking machine systems. I sure hope the board doesn't expect the average condo owner to pay for them when they break down.

Overall, the Phase 2 building is looking to be pretty impressive on the inside looking out. They did the right thing and hired a designer to coordinate the common area design.

The gym is about 3 times as large as the one in the Phase 1 building, and the pool area is looking very nice. Though I don't understand why they wouldn't have installed patio doors from the pool to the patio. The party room is smaller but has a more comfortable feel. Can't knock the view it has either - will be great for hosting a Canada Day party! The second lobby will also be pretty convenient.

I give them above acceptable on this one.

[K-133]

The closing they were referring to for end of Q1 was the interim closing, which basically just means placing the title in your name and giving them interim occupancy fees (rent) until they can finish the rest of the building and move people in. I don't know when the final closing will be, I expect at some point over the Summer at the latest.
.

Incorrect. They actually mean't that the condo would be registered within Q1 - hence those closing in Q2 would avoid interim occupancy. This is what they've advised the banks. However, I'm not sure how close they are to achieving that goal. I was told that the last scheduled closing date is sometime in May.

[waterloowarrior]

9 april 2011 - aerial by southfacing @ flickr
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5101/5604149131_e0fbff6049_z.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/23575605@N08/5604149131/

[AuxTown]

Alright, now if we can quintuple that development, Lebreton may start to resemble something like a neighbourhood. A good friend moved into phase 2 last month and I really like this building. Much better product than CP1&2 IMO.

One thing that really irks me about this project is the parking issue. Not sure if it has been mentioned before, but they did not plan for enough parking given the size of the development. I guess they figured only hippies and demented seniors without drivers licenses would buy units in the building. NEWSFLASH, the vast majority of people who can afford $300k+ condos are able to afford and will likely want to afford a car. This is Canada, not Manhattan. As a result, they put this crazy Stacker Parker system where cars park on top of eachother (see below, not the exact one but something similar). It takes up to a minute to get the car in or out of one of these systems. To me, this is waaayy too much aggravation, especially considering the amount of vacant land surrounding these towers they could have expanded the underground parking underneath. Anyway, I guess these things are the "way of the future", but if that's the case, count me out.

http://www.stackparker.com/WebFTP/119/v1/04.gif http://www.stackparker.com/WebFTP/119/v1/12.jpg

[McC]

Anyway, I guess these things are the "way of the future", but if that's the case, count me out.


Guess that means I'll have the future all to myself then!
<rubs hands together with glee*>

*evil glee

[condo_dreams]

I was told that prices for the remaining phase 2 units have gone up three times in the last 6 weeks or so. Wonder why..

[S-Man]

Perhaps because Claridge plans to make phase 3 even uglier than the first two!

[Kitchissippi]

This is more like the way of the future — you call for your car when you are up in your condo and it's waiting for you when you come down:

IkrK54XdLis

[condo_dreams]

that would be pretty damn impressive, I may not want to leave the garage if I could watch that every day.

All kidding aside, latest rumor has phase 2 being registered by the end of April. If anyone could confirm, that would be great.

[K-133]

All kidding aside, latest rumor has phase 2 being registered by the end of April. If anyone could confirm, that would be great.

They told my lawyer 3-4 weeks. My lawyer advised us, that means 4-6 weeks. That would mean we're looking at mid-to-late May.


What concerns me about these mechanical parking spots, is who will be responsible to foot the bill when they break down. Hopefully, it won't be the entire condo - but mechanical parking space owners outnumber regular parking space owners.

[andrewd77]

that would be pretty damn impressive, I may not want to leave the garage if I could watch that every day.

All kidding aside, latest rumor has phase 2 being registered by the end of April. If anyone could confirm, that would be great.


I've been informed that the final closing will be in the 3rd week of May.

For those of you interested in the parking system, it's made by Klaus, and here's the model that they went with:

http://www.klausparking.com/product/semi-automatic/P210.aspx

[condo_dreams]

That's another delay to add to the million others... frustrating! I hope the mid-end of May schedule sticks.

Pretty impressed with the amenities and the general quality of the interior of the building though, to be fair.

[kwoldtimer]

.........What concerns me about these mechanical parking spots, is who will be responsible to foot the bill when they break down. Hopefully, it won't be the entire condo - but mechanical parking space owners outnumber regular parking space owners.

Given the cost of building underground, or even podium, parking I am surprised that these systems are not more common.