River City Phase 3 is one of the most interesting condo projects in Toronto from an architecture and design standpoint. Not that previous phases of the large scale development in the West Don Lands are any slouches, but the third phase is about as bold a design as Toronto gets in its residential towers - both inside and out. With a variety of modular features, Urban Capital's suite designs are both minimalist and functional, where it is the former term that one tends to see most often in isolation when it comes to condos around town.

At 29-storeys, the stacked design highlights the unique nature of each unit, while keeping things visually stimulating for those walking by. With landscape design from Claude Cormier, the outdoor spaces show play well off of the rest of the development, with a green roof and lap pool serving as particular highlights.

SPECS

Location: Lower River St. and Eastern Avenue

Storeys: 29-storeys
Number of units: 330 high-design lofts and penthouses with 9 ft high ceilings
Types of units: Studios, 1 beds, 1 beds + dens, 2 beds, 2 beds + dens, 3 beds, townhouses, penthouses
Unit sizes: from 315 to 2,056 square feet
Walkscore: 87
Price: From $199,900 to $1.4m
Architect: Saucier + Perrotte
Interior designer: Urban Capital
Exterior designer: Claude Cormier
Developer: Urban Capital

FEATURES

• 9' high ceilings
• Floor-to-ceiling windows
• Double storey family-friendly "loft-houses"
• Built-in desks with above-desk internet and electrical outlets
• 2,000 square foot gym, fitness and yoga centre
• Double height common room equipped with a show kitchen
• Eclectic reading room with bean bags
• Tool-equipped hobby and crafts room
• Children's play space
• Private theatre and guest suite

THE VERDICT

I suppose I sound rather glowing on this one, but that's because there's a lot to like. Using architects with more institutional background to design something residential has paid off here, as the building is both unique and practical. It's also got a wide range of unit types and sizes, which means that families priced out of the housing market might look here for an alternative.

The amenities are above average (the large gym is of note here) and the area is proximate to downtown and while still a work in progress, already features draws like Corktown Common, Underpass Park, and the Distillery District. Not much to dislike here at all.

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