“Richmond is undergoing a lot of rejuvenation. There are great restaurants, a lot of young artists and professionals, and on nearby Queen St., are a number of new high-end stores. As the area improves, condo values rise.”

In keeping with its name, the 17-storey building will be contemporary with large expanses of glass accented by polished aluminum and textural brick. Suites will feature balconies, French balconies or terraces, with retail shops on the ground floor.

“The Modern is for the first-time buyer and though it’s contemporary, it’s also classic,” says Shear.

For warmer months, there will be the M Lounge with a rooftop garden, two plunge pools, lounge chairs, picnic tables, a barbecue and an outdoor shower.

Inside, Mike Niven Interior Design Inc. will create a two-storey lobby and lounge opening onto a landscaped courtyard garden.

The 343 suites offer European-style kitchens, stone counters and a stainless steel appliance package.

Sizes range from 380 square feet to 920 square feet, with suites starting at $157,990. Maintenance fees are 49 cents a square foot. Suites include studio to two-bedroom designs and Shear says 48 per cent of the building will be one-bedroom and den units, which will have either a powder room or full second-floor bathroom. Many two-bedroom suites are corner units, so there’s a lot of glazing.

In addition to the outdoor amenities, there is the indoor Mod Club where residents will be able to sit by the fireplace, dance or take in a movie in the theatre room.

The Modern on Richmond will officially open for sales today and Shear hopes to start construction next summer. Occupancy would be in mid-2010.

The location is at 320 Richmond St. E., at Sherbourne St.

Price range: $254,900to $1,308,900. Location: College Street and Ossington Avenue

Featuring a contemporary design of extensive glass, Cube is a new six-storey building by developer Neilas Inc., located on the edge of Little Italy. The project has just 21 units, with one and two-bedroom suites available, featuring contemporary interiors to complement the site’s exterior look. The boutique project is close to a range of amenities, including local restaurants, cafes and shops situated throughout the area. Builder/developer:

NeilasInc.Building:Six storeys. Suites: One bedroom and two bedroom designs. Size:543 to 2,180 square feet. Occupancy:Spring/summer, 2009. Target market: Urban professionals looking to live in a burgeoning area close to downtown. Features: Suites include hardwood flooring, high-end appliances, kitchen islands, Caesar-Stone countertops and Scavolini kitchens. The two penthouses also feature rooftop terraces. Amenities:The site is close to the restaurants, cafes, bakeries and shops of Little Italy. Standouts:The project features a boutique setting of just 21 units. Sales office: The building is currently in purview. Call 416-368-5262. L.V., National Post