540 Beatty is a new-home, old-building undertaking and one of six Metroliving projects in downtown Vancouver from Townline Homes.

Erected in 1911 -- yes, at 540 Beatty -- the Crane Building was originally a warehouse, showroom and office for the Crane Co., the steam, mill and plumbing equipment supplier. Today, however, it's something else: a multi-residence building comprised of eight studios, 28 one-bedroom apartments, 12 two-bedroom units and nine penthouses.

The homes will retain numerous historic features -- they include original brick feature-walls and exposed concrete ceiling, original refurbished wood sash windows and exposed heritage columns -- as well as contemporary touches. Floors are polished concrete throughout, and the modern kitchens and bathrooms feature high-gloss cabinetry. Appliances are from Liebherr, Jennair and Bosch.

The homes, reports Townline's Katie Wilkinson, represent "unique, one-of-a-kind loft living."

Of the 57 homes, products of architect Howard Bingham Hill, 21 are still available. Most of the remaining homes are open one-bedroom plans -- they range from 670 to 770 square feet -- as well as four larger penthouses, all of which have large outdoor patios. Prices start at $395,000 for a one bedroom with a car-share plan and continue on to $1.1 million for penthouses.

The 540 Beatty presentation centre is open Saturday through Wednesday from noon to 5 p.m.

Shown here is the one-bedroom show home, as photographed for Townline by Jessica Bushey. The preparation of the other homes for occupancy and the construction of the penthouses is continuing.

For more information, call 604-684-5403 or visit www.540Beatty.com.

© The Vancouver Sun 2008