Exploring Ottawa's Timeless Gems: Condos from 1970 to 1980

Are you ready to step into a time when Ottawa's condo landscape was defined by affordability and spacious floor plans? 1970 to 1980 brought forth a collection of condominiums that not only offered larger living spaces but also catered to a budget-friendly crowd. Let's take a tour of these timeless addresses and see what they have to offer.

Ambleside 1, 2, 3

Addresses: 1081 Ambleside, 1100 Ambleside, 1171 Ambleside,

The Ambleside trio is a testament to the era's commitment to spacious living. Nestled in a serene neighbourhood, these condos provide ample space at an affordable price point. With tons of amenities such as pools, exercise rooms, saunas, party rooms and more there will be no limit to your enjoyment in these condos. They are perfect retreat from the bustling city.

Queen Elizabeth Towers

Addresses: 500 and 530 Laurier Avenue West

The Queen Elizabeth Towers stand tall and proud in the heart of Ottawa. These iconic condos offer not only affordability but also a prime location. Each suite offers an indoor parking spot and balcony. Plenty of well-maintained common space boasts a party room, pool sauna, recreation room, fitness facilities and guest suite. You will also find a 24-hour concierge, air conditioning and even a workshop room. Residents enjoy easy access to the city's cultural attractions, restaurants, and shops, making it a vibrant place to call home.

Some of our favourite things to do in the area are:

  • Visit the Canadian War Museum (Admission is free on Thursdays from 5 to 7 p.m)

  • Mill Street Brew Pub (Grab a pint or take a tour!)

  • Parliament Hill (Canada’s parliament)

  • North & Navy (Delicious Italian Restaurant)

The Halcyon

Address: 1195 Richmond Rd.

The Halcyon, located on Richmond Road, offers a tranquil living experience. Enjoy tons of amenities here including a swimming pool, gym and private library. Its quiet surroundings and spacious units make it a perfect choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Park Place

Address: 1025 Richmond Rd.

Park Place is a condominium that blends affordability with convenience. Located on Richmond Road, it offers easy access to amenities and shopping, making it a practical choice for those who want both space and convenience. This condominium building is sought after for those looking to be closer to transit as the Lincoln Fields OC Transpo station is a short walk away, and the upcoming Phase 2 LRT Station being right next door. 

Some of our favourite spots in the area are:

  • Deschênes Rapids Lookout (Breath taking sunset views)

  • Colonnade Pizza (Delicious pizza)

  • McKellar Park Tennis Courts (Best way to get exercise)

  • Mud Lake Trail (Beautiful walking trains within the city)

Northwest One

Addresses: 265 Poulin and 2625 Regina

Northwest One is a condominium complex that offers maintenance-free condominium living in large comfortable suites, with breathtaking views of the Ottawa skyline. The majority of the units feature high ceilings, parquet flooring, open concept living and dining spaces, and expansive windows that flood the unit with natural light. All units have an oversized private balcony. Building amenities include a fitness room, indoor pool, party room, sauna, and guest suite. 

The Britannia

Address: 415 Greenview

Nestled in the picturesque Britannia neighborhood, The Britannia condos offers comfortable living with a touch of natural beauty. These units feature high ceilings, spacious living and dining areas, hardwood or laminate flooring, and oversized windows that flood the unit with natural light. Some of the units have been updated over the years to have an open concept kitchen. The surrounding greenery and access to the Ottawa River provide a serene backdrop to your daily life.

The Britannia Beach will become the ultimate “Chill spot” if you're living here.

Frobisher Place

Address: 1785 Frobisher

Frobisher Place is a condominium that reflects the charm of its era. It offers spacious living spaces at a price point that won't break the bank. Amenities at 1785 Frobisher Lane include a fitness centre with full length mirrors, a common patio with BBQ, a recreational room with a ping pong table and billiards, an indoor pool with sauna, and tennis courts. There is also an enclosed dog run next to the garage where your dog can run off leash. Located in a peaceful area, it's a wonderful place to call home.

Chateau Royale

Addresses: 1380 Prince of Wales and 900 Dynes

Built in 1975 by Assaly Developments, The Chateau Royal is one of two condos located on Prince of Wales Drive. The first condo, The Chateau Royal I is located at 900 Dynes Ave while the Chateau Royale II is located at 1380 Prince of Wales Dr. The majority of the units feature high ceilings, expansive windows flooding each room with natural light, and open concept kitchens . One of the big noteworthy bonuses of living at Chateau Royale is that you are in walking distance to the Rideau River and Hog’s Back Park, as well as Mooney's Bay Park and Beach. Take advantage of the bike and walking trails along the river or head over to the beach during the summer months to enjoy the sunshine.

Some of our favourite nearby attractions:

  • Mooney’s Bay Park (Tons of activities)

  • Les Grillades (Delicious authentic Lebanese food.)

  • Hogs Back Falls (Watch the rapids flow)

  • Rideau Canoe Club (Take a paddle on the Rideau River)

Park Square

Address: 151 Bay St.

Park Square is Ottawa’s first buildings to have been developed by the use of wind tunnels studies to assess the effects of downdrafts to make it suitable for its location. Situated on Bay Street, it offers spacious living spaces that are perfect for urban dwellers who want room to breathe. Residents at Park Square can enjoy the indoor pool, sauna, gym, and workshop that the building has to offer.

Its also walking distance to some of Ottawa greatest attractions such as:

  • The Supreme Court of Canada

  • National Archives

  • Rideau Shopping Centre

  • The Byward Market

These 1970s and 1980s condos not only offer larger floor plans but also represent a more budget-friendly option in the Ottawa real estate landscape. Explore their unique character and see how they continue to provide comfortable and affordable living options in the city.

Steve Peippo