Little Miami

The first thing you're likely to notice about 600 Goodale is its location. The 174-unit apartment complex sits on an odd plot of land adjacent to a Route 315 off-ramp-and across the street from the ubiquitous (and turquoise) White Castle headquarters. But residents don't choose 600 Goodale for its skyline views; they choose it for the ultra-modern, chic vibe upon which developer Brett Kaufman's made his name.

With its bold white exterior, high-end finishes like quartz-granite countertops, a state-of-the-art fitness studio (no boring wall of Stairmasters here) and a courtyard complete with a pool, bar, grills and cabana beds, this is the closest Columbusites will get to South Beach without a plane ticket.

Inside, halls are lined with odd pairs of portraits that make sense depending on your pop-culture views: Jay-Z and Albert Einstein, Mick Jagger and Abe Lincoln. Upon exiting the elevator on each floor, residents are greeted by original artwork from local artists. All public spaces-a lounge with a roaring fireplace and plenty of cushiony furniture, a ground-floor business space utilized by the many residents who work from home-are marked by bright colors, contemporary decor (hello, faux-fur recliners) and an open, airy atmosphere.

"It's eclectic, which is a big thing for us," Kaufman says. "It takes on different characteristics … old stone, barn wood, contemporary furnishings. The front door was inspired by something I saw on vacation in Rome. It's a great classic wood door on what is otherwise a modern building."

The property offers seven penthouses, all on the fifth floor. The Louis floor plan, which we toured, features wood floors, espresso stained cabinets, stainless-steel appliances, a huge walk-in closet and two balconies. It's certainly impressive for apartment living.

"This development wasn't without doubters," Kaufman says. "I think the thing that made it most challenging to envision was that prior to us, there was an old, unattractive warehouse here. That gets in the way of people seeing what's possible."