Suite Design

If condominium living appeals to you but you're wondering how you can possibly live in a smaller space than you´re used to – you're in for a pleasant surprise.  

Today's condominium suites are designed so well that they live much larger than their square footage. As you explore the many choices out there, you´ll notice innovative concepts such as wide shallow suites, interior bedrooms and linear kitchens that make the most of space.

The wide shallow concept has been popular in low-rise housing for quite a while, but is just now being pioneered in the condominium world as an alternative to narrow, deep suites. The main advantage is more window space in the main living areas, where owners spend most of their time. Wide shallow design is one way to create an expanded sense of spaciousness, with more views and balcony exposure for the kitchen, living and dining rooms.

The suite with the bedroom situated on the interior wall opens up a whole new dimension in condo living as well. Natural light from expansive windows floods the living and dining rooms and kitchen, rather than being shared by those areas and the bedroom, as in previously popular plans. Large doors that slide on tracks with glass or opaque inserts allow natural light to filter into these interior bedrooms, as well as the opportunity to open up this space to the main living area. Modern open concept design and flexibility go a long way to making a suite live large.

Kitchens have come a long way, too, with the advent of breakfast bars and now – linear layouts. With all of the kitchen cupboards and appliances lining one wall, this area becomes part of the living/dining room, which is perfect for entertaining. Let´s face it; the best parties end up in the kitchen anyway. Because walls do not restrict the flow of light or traffic, there is tremendous flexibility for furniture placement, even in compact suites, creating more elbow room for you and your guests.
 Kitchens are changing aesthetically, too, as they become more prominent in the main living space. European designs such as horizontal cupboard doors that open awning style work well in this kind of layout and also add to the visual appeal of the area.
Your concept of living space is relative. Look around your current home. How much wasted space does it encompass? You spend only a few minutes greeting guests in the foyer, and the rest of the time that area is empty. If you eliminate the foyer, long hallways and other little-used spaces, the result is a home that´s a fair bit smaller. In today's condominiums, suite owners live in their entire space, and love it.  

Linda Mitchell…Monarch Construction