In today’s Times Union, our new condo owner Steve Barnes writes of his experience selecting, designing, customizing and moving into his new home at 17 Chapel. Some excerpted highlights:

…As I looked into the building, located near the Palace and Capital Rep theaters and several of my favorite restaurants, my objections to owning a home were rebutted point by point…

…It’s exactly where I want to live. In fact, it’s literally next door to my beloved loft building of 13 years, and being downtown makes me feel involved in the city’s vibrancy…

…Finally, and the biggest thrill for me: I’d get to select each surface, finish, cabinet, tile, knob, handle, drawer pull and fixture. This meant specifying everything from quantity and location of electrical outlets to type of countertop to paint colors and appliances…

Read the full story here.