Neighborhood Launch

Front and back doors, ample green space, architectural diversity. With Chicago's historic Lincoln Park neighborhood as inspiration, developer Jeff Edwards has successfully brought neighborhood living to the heart of Downtown Columbus. Neighborhood Launch-with its wide sidewalks, pocket parks, centralized courtyards, patios and gardens-lends historic charm while encouraging community. You won't find another Downtown living experience like it.

If Neighborhood Launch gets one thing right, it's the variety of housing options. The two- and three-bedroom townhouses offer layouts with 2 and 3 stories, featuring grand staircases with exposed solid-wood treads, island kitchens and charming outdoor patios. The brownstone-esque garden flats feature ground-level, 1-story homes and private garden space. And you'll find distinctive loft-style living in the more contemporary bridge lofts. Sizes range from 725 square feet to more than 2,000 square feet.

As for finishes and special touches, Neighborhood Launch rivals the swankiest suburban homes. Custom Hampshire wood cabinets, a variety of granite countertop options, stainless-steel appliances, stunning hardwood floors and beautiful interior lighting packages are attractive to those making the Downtown move from suburbs like Upper Arlington, Gahanna and Dublin.

The smart design, variety of floor plans and 100-percent tax abatement for 15 years also appeals to buyers. Bridge Loft resident Taylor Vickery appreciates the high ceilings, the openness of her kitchen, the large windows-and plentiful natural light-and overall privacy. "I didn't want to live in a building with shared interior hallways and people in units on either side of me, so this is the perfect combination," she says.

Unlike urban developments that direct residents through a single entrance to ascend a vertical tower, Neighborhood Launch offers the flow of a home.

Garden flat owner Sue Cass says the front and rear entrances allow for connection with neighbors on both sides. "Most neighbors see one another when heading off to work and then reconnect in the evenings on their patios," she says.

With the first condominium building-featuring four townhouses and three bridge lofts-completed in 2008, the 7.5-acre neighborhood now continues east. The next phase, Bishops Walk II, will add 13 townhouses, 12 garden flats and a final bridge loft along Gay Street. It's scheduled for completion in early 2015.