If you are looking for an urban utility/transport bike then the features that you need are:
Clearance for the widest tyres you will use.
Threaded eyelets for luggage rack and fenders.
A gearing range suitable for local conditions.
Strong wheels.
Lights/fenders/rack/lock
Lightweight enough to carry up steps.
You can do this with some older style road bikes: ones with horizontal dropouts are good candidates because you can convert them to fixed or singlespeed.
Used touring bikes have low thief-appeal.
Hub gear bikes (like the Breezer) are good for their low-maintenance and also for dynamo lighting.
How sporty or utility you want to go is up to you, bear in mind your alternate use (racing/touring/off-road). Commuter bikes are the ultimate custom bikes, build whatever you want.