Enigma Lofts is bringing something truly different to the aging industrial area in which it's slated to open. Located on a quiet side street adjacent to a sizeable playground, this 86 unit, 9 storey structure, will easily be one of the largest buildings in the area. The eye-catching Z shaped pseudo-industrial building was designed by local firm Quadrangle Architects. You might recognize them from their "edgy" work on other soon to arrive mid-sized projects around the city including 2221 Yonge and Cube Lofts.

Besides the enigmatic exterior, the interiors of these lofts will at least be a bit more familiar to those used to condo living. That is except for these the interestingly shaped windows, which might make shopping for blinds a bit of an adventure. The sheer amount of different style units is easily one of the biggest assets here; with options for everything from small studios to massive 3 bedroom townhomes. Enigma is certainly filling a much needed hole in a neighbourhood pilled high with primarily low-rise homes, where people looking for something less than an entire house are usually left with few too many options.

SPECS

• Address: 138 St. Helens Ave
• Developer: Aragon
• Architect: Quadrangle
• Floors: 9
• Number of Units: 86
• Unit Sizes in Square Feet (Approx): 400 to 1,500
• Types of Units: Studio, 1 Bedroom, 1+Den, 2 Bedroom, 3 Bedroom, Single Storey Lofts, 2 Storey Lofts, and 3 Bedroom Townhomes
• Completion Date: 2016

THE GOOD

You're really investing in the growth potential of this area. As neighbourhoods further east become over saturated with new development, higher priced homes and ever more crowded streets, this area will soon become a destination as vitality gets pushed further west (maybe one day even to Etobicoke!). Even though this condo building has 86 units, the privacy factor here is a lot better than a great deal of new projects, where many share their halls with hundreds of neighbours. Also, if you can snag a unit on one of the higher floors, you can expect some expansive views for quite a few years to come. Although subtlety wasn't high on the list of design principles used, you will never have trouble finding this place when things are looking a bit hazy after a late night out (See: crazy loud rendering).

THE BAD

Although investing early in this area is a great opportunity, you're still going to have to live with some of Blansddowne's more shabby aspects for a few years to come. Whether it be that strip club parked oddly enough next to the Christian fellowship at Lansdowne Station or the remain industry around the development, this hood still needs a good hose down before it's ready for primetime.

OUR TAKE

Regardless of any current downsides associated with the neighbourhood, this area is strategically placed to become a real hotspot. If you're patient over the next few years, the enclaves of great restaurants and shops will continue to grow. And besides, this building's avant-garde design won't go out of style by then, right?

Read other posts in this series via our Toronto Condos and Lofts Pinterest board.