Alright, I know most of you are tired of hearing about 1521. The water views, inviting lobby, and the lawsuit. However, I couldn't resist not checking out the building. So indulge me and I promise you this will probably be the last time you'll hear about this condo for a little while. Here are some of my observations from the 1521 tour I took yesterday:
(Pictures provided by Realogics, archived at Seattle Condo Review Gallery)
Finishes
Finishes are better than Gallery, Mosler Lofts, Rollin, and the Parc. One notch more modest than Four Seasons but the color schemes are well put together. The appliances (microwave, refrigerator, and dishwasher) are nicely concealed behind the cabinets which give cleaner lines.
Views/ layout
Floor Plan A has the most optimal views in my opinion as you're able to capture both the water and city views from the two walls of windows in the living room.
As for Plan B, you need to be on the 9th floor or higher to clear your view from the building right across on the north side of the building. The 1 Hotel Residence empty lot does not make the view appealing at all. However, this floor plan has the biggest living space compared to the other floor plans. It also comes with a pantry/laundry room.
Plan C has a longer entry way and smaller living space compared to the other floor plans but you get an additional laundry/pantry room.
Plan D has a nice little office nook (which the rest of the floor plans lack). There is also window in one of the bathrooms.
Plan E has great water views but the 2nd bedroom seems much smaller than the other floor plans.
For those of you who are looking to hang some paintings on the wall, you would probably prefer Plan C. If you are looking for views, you should check out A, D, and E. My favorite, Plan A, has the best view, a great layout, and 2 reasonable sized bedrooms. As for all the fuss about the shorter entry doors, I think it would be nice to have that extra foot of height but I don't think it's a deal breaker. The developer should probably have done a better job at informing buyers about the change earlier and worked with them to resolve the issue.
Cool stuff
Owners who upgraded their bathroom with the Neorest toilet system know how to pamper their bottom. The toilet system has a sensor that automatically opens the cover and cleans and dries your bottom. Ok. Maybe too much information. All the homes are installed with motorized shades that come with black-out blinds. You probably need it during the hot summer time.
Amenities
1521 includes concierge service, a fitness center (with yoga and pilates room), rooftop terrace, and a business center. You can also find a children's room and the porte cochere in this building which are fairly uncommon amenities for condos.
Overall, 1521 lives up to some pretty high expectations. Spectacular views (partly protected by a perpertual air easment), excellent finishes, comprehensive amenities, and nice floorplans situated in the center of the action make this a must-see for well-heeled urban dwellers.
See previous 1521 posts:
Fifteen Twenty One Opening Ceremony
Fifteen Twenty One Update
Fifteen Twenty-One-1521 receives 14 awards
Fifteen Twenty One, not just another number
