The Harlowe Condos are Brad Lamb's latest Toronto project, announced late last year and slated for occupancy in October 2017. Located at 618 Richmond Street just east of Bathurst, the 14 storey development is clad in an understated brick that distinguishes the building from the glass-explosion Toronto has witnessed over the past decade or so, but doesn't exactly make much of a statement. That, of course, doesn't need to be a bad thing. Despite its overall size -- 220 units -- this is a condo that will enter the neighbourhood without cramping on anyone's style or sight lines a whole lot.

Speaking of units, it's worth noting that potential buyers have 31 different floor plans to choose from, ranging from 489 square foot sing bedrooms to the 1535 square foot three bedroom penthouse. Also a plus is the healthy number of options in the two and three bedroom (non-penthouse) offerings. With the housing market more and more difficult to enter into, condos with plenty of bedrooms are always a welcome addition downtown.

SPECS

• Number of Storeys: 14
• Total Number of Suites:210
• Number of Suites/Floor: 20
• Floor Plans: 26
• Suite Size Range: 489 - 1535 sq ft
• Ceiling Height: 9-11ft
• Price / sq ft from $545
• Unit pricing: $269,990-1,035,900
• Parking Price: $34,900
• Locker Price: $4,000
• Interior Designer: Core Architects

FEATURES

• 9ft ceiling heights
• Gas BBQ connection provided on balconies and terraces
• Stainless steel appliances
• Deep soaker bathtub with tiled skirt


• Concierge

THE VERDICT

The Harlowe wins points for its straightforward warehouse-style design, which is saved from complete anonymity by the setback of the top four floors, which also allows the developer to offer luxury units with sweeping city views. That said, the idea that the condo "will change downtown Toronto drastically with its modern design" is completely unfounded.

While the in-building amenities aren't the story here, the reason for that is obvious: Richmond and Bathurst is a prime location that's close to pretty much everything the city has to offer. The basic unit quality looks decent, if not luxurious. At least you get pre-finished wood floors right from the get go. And that's pretty much the story. while not spectacular in any way, the Harlowe Condos don't tend to offend either.

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