Condo of the week: It has 1 bedroom and costs $1.4 million

A Kits penthouse steps away from the beach that boasts spectacular views and floating stairs

The details: 17-1620 Balsam Street | $1,399,000 | 1,593 sq. ft. | 1 bed, 2 bathThe Condo: This beautifully renovated penthouse in Kitsilano feels more like a modern Manhattan loft than it does an over-30-year-old condo. It’s a stunning open concept space spread over 1,593 sq. ft. and boasts spectacular water and mountain views from the large main floor patio. The modern and minimalist kitchen has wood cabinetry, stone counters, and stainless steel appliances. A nostalgic wood burning fireplace with black slate highlights the living space, along with solid oak floors and 16-ft. ceilings. Floating stairs with glass railings lead you upstairs to the vaulted loft space that does triple duty as a TV room, office room, and guest room. Downstairs, the master suite feels like a high-end hotel room with a fully open concept. The bathroom features a striking glass shower enclosure in the middle of the room with a free-standing tub alongside it. The large walk-in closet and plethora of custom built-in cabinetry gives you lots of storage. This unique home is an entertainer’s dream.The Building: It’s a 34-year-old wood-frame building with 20 units. Pets are allowed, but no rentals are permitted.The Neighbourhood: It’s a block off Kits Beach. It doesn’t get much better than that for those who love summer (and who doesn’t love summer?). The area is highly walkable with easy access to shopping along 4th Ave. and great restaurants options on Yew Street. You’ve also got great local grocery options with Whole Foods, Market Meats, New Apple Farms, Cobb’s Bread, 7 Seas Fish Market, and Kitsilano Wine Cellar all just up the hill.Potential Downsides: Over-sized one bedroom condos for $1.4 million certainly aren’t for everyone as there are definitely some functional compromises to be made here. Guests could stay in the loft/den area but would need to shower in the second bathroom just off the kitchen. While the list price of $1.4 million seems awfully high for a one bedroom, the $878 per sq. ft. they are asking for is in line with a lot of recent sales in the area.