Hallmark Estates

Look up. Look WAY up, and note the four roof-top decks and sloping metal roofs that make Hallmark Estates stand out on the Connaught skyline. The top floors of this 10-storey condo tower have six two-level suites, the corner four suites of which each have a standard balcony off the living room but also enjoy a lovely large roof terrace. Each of these six penthouses is special, with a sloping ceiling and a large loft level that overlooks the living room. Roof decks are so rare in Calgary that I keep a file of buildings that offer them. If that's what you need, let me know.

Hallmark Estates saw construction begin in 1979 and buyers take possession in 1981. It was built to be a condo building, so has never been a rental. The 48 roomy suites are served by two elevators, indoor heated assigned parking and surface but covered assigned parking stalls. On the main floor there's a large lobby, an office, plus a storage-lockers area. All suites have in-suite laundry with dryers vented to the outside and every suite I've seen has a wood-burning fireplace.

The smallest suite here is 602 square feet, but it's rare. More common are two-bedroom suites of 878 square feet, ranging up to those corner two-level penthouse suites at 1,209 square feet; the outdoor balconies and patios are additional, of course. Exterior windows and doors at Hallmark Estates are common property, so are covered by reserve-fund savings. This building looks of its era but always seems well maintained and tidy. Exterior windows and doors are common property for maintenance and eventual replacement. I have the Condo Plan on file.