I have lived in 9 different apartment buildings over my lifetime, and have lived in some of the…read moreworst and some of the best. After a year and a half (2014-15), I can count Hamilton Place Apartments as one of the best I have lived in.
Location, location, location!
It is centrally located a block off the "quiet side" of the Square across from the Madison Children's Museum and Bradbury's (see my review for this place - yum!). I consider it the "quiet side" because it is far enough away from campus, bars and stores that it gets very little late night foot traffic - rarely will you be awaken at 2am "woohoo"-screaming kids coming home from the bar or the obscene yellings of the homeless crazies that often wander the square. However, even though it is on the "quiet side", all of the things to love about the Square (Farmer's Market, restaurants, cafes, festivals, etc.) are all within a couple blocks walk.
Excellent Management
Gaby is an excellent property manager - always available via phone, text or email. She responded to every question I had within a day and took every request seriously. At least 24 hours notice was given anytime they needed access to my apartment for routine maintenance (filters, window cleaning, etc.) and when I needed something replaced or fixed, Ricardo, on-site maintenance guy would address quickly and completely, even if it's at their expense. In my case, Ricardo replaced a toilet shortly after move-in that wouldn't stop running. Hamilton Place is Gaby's only building, so unlike other property companies that manage several properties in Madison, you get very prompt and personal attention from the staff if/when you need their support or help.
Right-Sized Building
The building itself is older, but has been well-maintained. It has the amenities you would expect from a luxury apartment (penthouse patio & community room w/view of lake mendota, fitness center, secure elevator, storage lockers, etc.). The best thing about the amenities is that they're almost always available, because there are only ~9 apartments per floor of this 6-story building. In other words, the amenities are appropriate for the number of people living there. There are assigned parking spots in the heated garage. Gaby can arrange for a spot if you have guests coming, or there is a city parking garage conveniently located across the street if guest spots are not available.
Primo Apartment
Since I work from home full-time, I tend to splurge and go big with the apartments I rent... so a disclaimer - I was in #600, which I believe is one of their primo-apartments. If you're looking for an apartment and it's available and within your budget - grab it - you'll be very happy. Stainless steel appliances, built-in space heater in the bathroom, amazing view of the capital (see photo), easy access (elevator, trash chute, stairs).
Friendly Neighbors of All Kinds
Your fellow neighbors will be of all ages and backgrounds. You never know who may join you on the elevator - from a small family w/kids to a young professional heading out to walk his/her dog to one of the international students that live on the entire 2nd floor. But regardless of who you may run into, you can count on him/her being friendly.
If you are considering living at Hamilton Place, feel free to send me a message. I'd be happy to answer any questions.