INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE: Private courtyard just one of many attractive amenities
Province
Espana, the final piece of the International Village puzzle, has great-looking open plans. Living room, above, and kitchen, below, have laminate flooring as a standard feature. Photograph by : Wayne Leidenfrost, The Province
Espana, the final piece of the International Village puzzle, has great-looking open plans. Living room, above, and kitchen, below, have laminate flooring as a standard feature. Photograph by : Wayne Leidenfrost, The Province
If you have ever found yourself riding the SkyTrain, looking out on the empty parking lot at International Village near Stadium Station and wondering, “What sort of project is going in there?” wonder no more.
It’s Espana Condominiums — the final stage of a spectacular development that surely will change the skyline and the pulse of downtown Vancouver forever.
“Espana is the culmination of all the hard work that we have put into [International Village],” says Graham Snowden of Henderson Development (Canada) Ltd.
Espana is the Spanish word for Spain.
“The Spanish are said to have the greatest capacity for enjoying life,” said Snowden. “Probably the most unique part of the development is the private Spanish-style courtyard.”
What’s special about the project?
“Espana will complete the International Village development. It was conceived by well-respected IBI/HB Architects and Barry Downs, creator of Canada Place. A design masterpiece, the courtyard is an interplay of sun and shadow, vibrant radial walkways and cloistered private spaces, lush garden plantings and spectacular water features.”
What’s attractive about the location and neighbourhood?
“Local amenities include Andy Livingston Park, GM Place, Dr. Sun Yat Sen Gardens and Chinatown. It’s a few short blocks from both Gastown and Yaletown, and easily accessible by the SkyTrain.”
What are people liking about the floor plans?
“All suites offer either an enclosed or open balcony and many suites offer both. Espana’s spacious floor plans are incredibly efficient in that an entire unit is usable, limiting corridor or hallway space.”
What special details?
“Open-concept from kitchen to dining area. Ensuites in two bedroom and larger units. Home office/den area in all units. Penthouses and townhouses are two levels with roofdecks.”
What standard features are impressing buyers?
“Standard features include laminate wood flooring throughout, porcelain tile in bathrooms, stainless-steel appliances, granite counter tops, full-size stacking washer/dryer, energy-efficient steam heat.
“The two-bedroom and larger suites also offer free-standing tubs in the master ensuite and a stainless-steel wine cooler.”
What upgrades are available?
“Appliance upgrades will be available. (Laminate flooring is standard.)”
How are sales going?
“Sales are yet to begin, however, the extensive list of priority registrants indicates that Espana units are going to be in high demand. The sales centre, at the corner of Abbott Street and Pender Street, will be opening in April.”
Amenities?
“A 25-metre swimming pool, fitness centre, whirlpool, steam room, multi-media room, conference room and two game/multi-function rooms.”
Occupancy?
“The fourth quarter of 2008.”
QUICK FACTS
Espana
What: Two highrises, two rows of townhomes, one midrise — 446 units in downtown Vancouver
Where: 505 Abbott St.
Developed by: Henderson Development (Canada) Ltd.
Sizes: One-, two- and three-bedroom units, 580 sq. ft. to 1,800 sq. ft.
Prices: $250,000 to $1.3 million
Open: Daily, noon to 6 p.m. 604-915-7198 or 604-689-8898
© The Vancouver Province 2006