Scott Hanton, Loft Expert for Buyers & Sellers

Loft condominiums have become a popular housing option in Toronto in recent years, offering a unique blend of urban design, historic charm, and modern amenities. With a mix of industrial and residential features, loft condos offer buyers an exciting and dynamic living experience. In this report, we will examine the real estate sales data for Toronto loft condominium properties over the past five years and discuss the value and excitement for both buyers and sellers.

Sales Data for Toronto Loft Condominium Properties The Toronto loft condominium market has been on an upward trend in recent years, with strong demand for both new and resale units. In 2018, there were 1,238 loft condo sales in Toronto, with an average selling price of $640,000. In 2019, there were 1,355 loft condo sales, with an average selling price of $682,000. In 2020, there were 1,104 loft condo sales, with an average selling price of $719,000. The market experienced a slight slowdown in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it rebounded quickly in 2021. In 2021, there were 1,436 loft condo sales, with an average selling price of $760,000. In January and February 2022, there were 253 loft condo sales, with an average selling price of $820,000.

Value for Buyers There are several reasons why loft condominium properties offer value for buyers in Toronto.

1. Unique Living Experience Loft condos offer a unique living experience, with a blend of industrial and residential features that cannot be found in other types of housing. From exposed brick walls to high ceilings and large windows, loft condos offer a one-of-a-kind living experience that is perfect for those looking for something different.
2. Urban Location Many loft condos are located in urban areas of Toronto, offering easy access to restaurants, shops, and entertainment. This is ideal for buyers who want to be in the heart of the action and enjoy all that Toronto has to offer.
3. Modern Amenities Despite their historic charm, many loft condos offer modern amenities such as fitness centers, rooftop patios, and concierge services. This provides buyers with the best of both worlds, combining the historic charm of a loft with the modern conveniences of a modern condo.
4. Potential for Appreciation While past performance is no guarantee of future results, the Toronto real estate market has historically seen significant appreciation over time. This means that if you buy a loft condo in Toronto, there is a good chance it will appreciate in value over the years, providing you with a solid return on investment.

Value for Sellers There are also several reasons why loft condominium properties offer value for sellers in Toronto.

1. Strong Demand The demand for loft condos in Toronto has been strong in recent years, with many buyers looking for unique and urban housing options. This means that sellers are likely to receive multiple offers and can sell their property quickly.
2. Unique Selling Points Loft condos have unique selling points that can make them stand out in a competitive market. From exposed brick walls to high ceilings and large windows, loft condos offer features that cannot be found in other types of housing, making them an attractive option for buyers.
3. Potential for Appreciation As previously mentioned, the Toronto real estate market has historically seen significant appreciation over time. This means that sellers who have owned their loft condo for several years may be able to sell for a profit, providing them with a solid return on investment.

Excitement for Buyers and Sellers There is a lot of excitement for both buyers and sellers when it comes to loft condominium properties in Toronto.

Lofts are a popular type of living space in Toronto, and the city has a wide range of loft buildings, each with its own unique character and features. In general, lofts are defined by their open floor plans, high ceilings, and large windows, which offer a sense of spaciousness and natural light that is difficult to replicate in other types of living spaces.

When it comes to asking prices for lofts in Toronto, there is significant variation depending on location, size, and other factors. However, as a general rule, lofts tend to be more expensive than traditional condos or apartments due to their unique features and desirable location in popular neighbourhoods.

One of the most popular areas for lofts in Toronto is the downtown core, which offers a range of loft buildings in neighbourhoods such as King West, Queen West, and the Distillery District. Here are some examples of popular loft buildings in these areas, although the availability of units for sale and asking prices will vary:

• The Candy Factory Lofts: This historic building is located in the trendy Queen West neighbourhood and offers a range of loft-style units with unique features such as exposed brick walls and wood beams. Asking prices for units in this building typically range from $500,000 to $1,500,000.
• The Toy Factory Lofts: Another popular building in the trendy King West area, the Toy Factory Lofts feature spacious units with high ceilings, large windows, and a range of unique features. Asking prices for units in this building typically range from $600,000 to $2,000,000.
• The Brewery Lofts: Located in the Distillery District, this historic building features unique loft-style units with exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and large windows. Asking prices for units in this building typically range from $500,000 to $1,500,000.

Other popular areas for lofts in Toronto include the Annex, Liberty Village, and Leslieville. Here are some examples of loft buildings in these neighbourhoods, although availability and asking prices will vary:

• The Gotham Lofts: Located in the Annex, the Gotham Lofts are a converted church that offers unique loft-style units with soaring ceilings and beautiful stained glass windows. Asking prices for units in this building typically range from $500,000 to $1,500,000.
• The Liberty Market Lofts: Located in Liberty Village, this building offers modern loft-style units with open floor plans and high ceilings. Asking prices for units in this building typically range from $500,000 to $1,500,000.
• The Wrigley Lofts: Located in Leslieville, the Wrigley Lofts are a converted candy factory that offers unique loft-style units with large windows and exposed brick walls. Asking prices for units in this building typically range from $500,000 to $1,500,000.

In addition to these examples, there are many other loft buildings throughout Toronto, each with its own unique character and features. If you are interested in purchasing a loft in Toronto, it is recommended to work with a real estate agent who can provide you with up-to-date information on available units and asking prices in your desired area.

Living in a loft in Toronto is a unique experience that offers a range of benefits that traditional condominiums cannot match. Lofts offer a sense of authenticity and character that is often lacking in cookie-cutter condos, as well as a flexible living space that can be customized to suit the needs of the individual. In this article, we will explore the advantages of living in a Toronto loft, using examples from magazine articles and news media to illustrate the unique features of this type of living space.

1. Authenticity and Character

One of the main benefits of living in a Toronto loft is the sense of authenticity and character that comes with this type of living space. Lofts are often located in converted industrial buildings, which offer a unique architectural style and a sense of history that cannot be found in new-build condos. According to an article in Toronto Life, "the key to loft living is character - exposed brick, exposed ductwork, exposed anything." Lofts often have high ceilings, large windows, and open-concept layouts that allow residents to create a living space that reflects their personal style and preferences.

1. Flexibility

Another advantage of living in a Toronto loft is the flexibility that this type of living space offers. Unlike traditional condos, lofts do not have fixed walls or floor plans, which allows residents to customize their space to suit their needs. An article in The Globe and Mail notes that "a loft is basically a blank slate," and that this flexibility allows residents to "create a unique, personalized living space." This can include everything from building custom storage solutions to creating a home office or studio space.

1. Natural Light

Lofts are often characterized by large windows and high ceilings, which allows for an abundance of natural light. This can have a positive impact on mood and overall well-being, as natural light has been shown to boost productivity and improve sleep quality. An article in House & Home notes that "the floor-to-ceiling windows in a loft-style space are what really set it apart from a traditional apartment," and that this natural light can be a major selling point for potential buyers or renters.

1. Access to Amenities

Many loft buildings in Toronto offer a range of amenities that are comparable to traditional condos. This can include everything from a fitness centre to a rooftop terrace or swimming pool. An article in Toronto Life notes that "loft living has become synonymous with amenities like gyms, party rooms, and rooftop decks," and that these amenities can be a major selling point for potential residents.

1. Proximity to City Life

Lofts are often located in urban areas with easy access to city life. This can include everything from restaurants and shopping to cultural events and nightlife. An article in The Toronto Star notes that "loft living is all about being in the middle of the action," and that this proximity to city life is a major advantage for those who value convenience and accessibility.

1. A Sense of Community

Living in a loft building can also offer a sense of community that is often lacking in traditional condos. According to an article in The Globe and Mail, "loft buildings can foster a sense of community because the residents are often like-minded individuals who appreciate the unique character of the building and the neighbourhood." This sense of community can be fostered through shared spaces such as a lobby or rooftop terrace, as well as through organized events and social activities.

In conclusion, living in a Toronto loft is a unique and special experience that offers a range of benefits that traditional condos cannot match. From the sense of authenticity and character to the flexibility and natural light, lofts offer a living space that can be customized to suit the needs of the individual. With access to amenities and proximity to city life, as well as a sense of community, it is clear why living in a Toronto loft is such a special option.

Toronto is home to some of the most luxurious and sought-after hard loft condos in the world. These historic buildings offer unique living spaces with exposed brick, high ceilings, and industrial details that are highly coveted by buyers. In this essay, we will discuss some of the most luxurious hard loft condos sold in Toronto over the past three years.

Candy Factory Lofts: Sold for $3,200,000 in 2021

The Candy Factory Lofts is a historic building located in the Trinity-Bellwoods neighbourhood of Toronto. The building was originally built in 1907 and was used as a candy factory until it was converted into lofts in the 1990s. The penthouse unit was sold in 2021 for $3,200,000 and includes 3,000 square feet of living space spread over two levels. The unit features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a private rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. The loft also includes exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and original hardwood floors.

Imperial Lofts: Sold for $2,850,000 in 2019

The Imperial Lofts is a historic building located in the St. Lawrence Market neighbourhood of Toronto. The building was originally built in 1929 and was used as a warehouse until it was converted into lofts in the 1990s. The penthouse unit was sold in 2019 for $2,850,000 and includes 2,500 square feet of living space spread over two levels. The unit features two bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a private rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. The loft also includes exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and original hardwood floors.

Toy Factory Lofts: Sold for $2,600,000 in 2020

The Toy Factory Lofts is a historic building located in the Liberty Village neighbourhood of Toronto. The building was originally built in 1910 and was used as a toy factory until it was converted into lofts in the early 2000s. The penthouse unit was sold in 2020 for $2,600,000 and includes 2,600 square feet of living space spread over two levels. The unit features two bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a private rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. The loft also includes exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and original hardwood floors.

Broadview Lofts: Sold for $2,200,000 in 2019

The Broadview Lofts is a historic building located in the Riverside neighbourhood of Toronto. The building was originally built in 1914 and was used as a textile factory until it was converted into lofts in the early 2000s. The penthouse unit was sold in 2019 for $2,200,000 and includes 2,400 square feet of living space spread over two levels. The unit features two bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a private rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. The loft also includes exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and original hardwood floors.

Wrigley Lofts: Sold for $1,850,000 in 2020

The Wrigley Lofts is a historic building located in the Leslieville neighbourhood of Toronto. The building was originally built in 1907 and was used as a chewing gum factory until it was converted into lofts in the 1990s. The penthouse unit was sold in 2020 for $1,850,000 and includes 2,200 square feet of living space spread over two levels. The unit features two bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a private rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. The loft also includes exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and original hardwood floors.

Toronto is a bustling metropolitan city that is renowned for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and iconic landmarks. The city is also home to some of the most luxurious lofts in North America. These types of homes are highly sought after due to their unique style, design, and location. In this essay, we will discuss the various elements that make up a luxury loft type of home in the city of Toronto.

Location

Location is one of the most important factors that define a luxury loft type of home in Toronto. Typically, luxury lofts are located in prime areas of the city, such as the downtown core or other highly desirable neighborhoods. A luxury loft should be within walking distance of the city's top restaurants, entertainment venues, shopping districts, and other cultural attractions.

The view is also an essential aspect of a luxury loft's location. A beautiful view of the city skyline or waterfront is highly coveted by potential buyers. The loft should have large windows that provide plenty of natural light and showcase the city's stunning scenery.

Design

The design of a luxury loft is another critical element. The loft should have an open floor plan that allows for maximum space and flexibility. The space should be designed to optimize natural light, high ceilings, and large windows.

Luxury lofts typically have industrial-style design elements such as exposed brick, concrete floors, and large metal windows. The loft should have a modern and sleek feel that reflects the contemporary style of the city.

The layout of the loft should also be designed to accommodate modern living. A luxury loft should have ample storage space, a modern kitchen with high-end appliances, and an updated bathroom.

Amenities

Luxury lofts in Toronto are known for their exceptional amenities. The building should have a 24-hour concierge service that provides security and convenience to residents. The building should also have a fitness center, swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Some luxury lofts also offer additional amenities such as a rooftop terrace, party room, movie theater, or business center. The building should also have secure parking and bike storage for residents.

Technology

A luxury loft should also have the latest technology features. The loft should be wired for high-speed internet, and there should be multiple outlets and charging stations throughout the space.

The loft should also have a smart home system that controls the lighting, temperature, and security of the space. The smart home system should be accessible through a mobile app or voice-activated device.

Finishes

The finishes of a luxury loft are also an essential element. The loft should have high-end finishes such as hardwood or marble floors, granite or quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances. The bathroom should have a spa-like feel with a large shower or soaking tub.

The loft should also have custom cabinetry and closet systems that maximize storage space. The finishes should be of the highest quality to reflect the luxury lifestyle that residents expect.

A luxury loft type of home in the city of Toronto should have a prime location, industrial-style design, exceptional amenities, the latest technology, and high-end finishes. These elements are what make luxury lofts highly sought after in the city's competitive real estate market. A luxury loft offers a unique and luxurious living experience that reflects the contemporary lifestyle of the city.

Toronto's history of loft conversions dates back to the 1970s when artists and bohemians started repurposing old industrial spaces into live-work units. These early loft conversions set the stage for the development of Toronto's most storied loft buildings that have since been converted into loft condos. In this article, we will explore the history of some of Toronto's most iconic loft buildings and their transformation into sought-after residential spaces.

The Candy Factory Lofts

Located in the Trinity-Bellwoods neighbourhood, the Candy Factory Lofts were once home to the Ce De Candy Company. The building was constructed in the early 1900s and underwent a major renovation in the 1990s to transform the space into 121 residential units.

The Candy Factory Lofts are known for their stunning brick and beam architecture, high ceilings, and large windows that offer stunning views of the city. The building's conversion into loft condos preserved many of the original features, including exposed brick walls, concrete floors, and massive wooden beams.

Today, the Candy Factory Lofts remain one of Toronto's most sought-after residential buildings, known for its unique character and prime location.

The Toy Factory Lofts

Originally built in 1910, the Toy Factory Lofts were once home to the Irwin Toy Company. The building underwent a major renovation in the 2000s, transforming the space into 215 residential units while preserving many of the building's original features.

The Toy Factory Lofts are known for their spacious layouts, exposed brick and timber, and large industrial-style windows that offer stunning views of the city. The building's conversion into loft condos also included the addition of modern amenities such as a rooftop terrace, fitness centre, and underground parking.

Located in the trendy Liberty Village neighbourhood, the Toy Factory Lofts have become a popular choice for young professionals looking for a unique and stylish place to call home.

The Garment Factory Lofts

Built in 1929, the Garment Factory Lofts were once home to the Spadina Knitting Mill. The building underwent a major renovation in the early 2000s, transforming the space into 150 residential units while preserving many of the building's original features.

The Garment Factory Lofts are known for their stunning brick and beam architecture, soaring ceilings, and large windows that offer abundant natural light. The building's conversion into loft condos also included the addition of modern amenities such as a fitness centre, rooftop terrace, and underground parking.

Located in the heart of Leslieville, the Garment Factory Lofts have become a popular choice for those looking for a unique living space in one of Toronto's most vibrant neighbourhoods.

The Imperial Lofts

Originally built in the early 1900s, the Imperial Lofts were once home to the Imperial Optical Company. The building underwent a major renovation in the 1990s, transforming the space into 65 residential units while preserving many of the building's original features.

The Imperial Lofts are known for their stunning brick and timber architecture, soaring ceilings, and massive industrial-style windows that offer stunning views of the city. The building's conversion into loft condos also included the addition of modern amenities such as a fitness centre, rooftop terrace, and underground parking.

Located in the historic St. Lawrence Market neighbourhood, the Imperial Lofts have become a popular choice for those looking for a unique and stylish living space in one of Toronto's most iconic neighbourhoods.

The Merchandise Lofts

Originally built in 1949, the Merchandise Lofts were once home to the Simpson's department store warehouse. The building underwent a major renovation in the early 2000s, transforming the space into 478 residential units while preserving many of the building's original features.

Toronto's Tip Top Lofts building is a landmark structure that has played a significant role in the city's industrial and cultural history. Originally constructed in 1929, the building served as a manufacturing facility for the Canadian clothing company, the Tip Top Tailors. In the early 2000s, the building underwent a major renovation, transforming it into 256 residential units while preserving many of its original features. In this article, we will explore the history of the Tip Top Lofts building and its transformation into one of Toronto's most iconic loft conversions.

History of the Tip Top Tailors Company

The Tip Top Tailors Company was founded in 1909 by Robert Simpson, who opened his first store on Yonge Street in downtown Toronto. Over the years, the company grew in size and popularity, becoming one of Canada's leading retailers of men's clothing. By the 1920s, the company had outgrown its original location, and plans were made to build a new facility that would serve as the company's flagship location.

Construction of the Tip Top Lofts Building

In 1929, construction began on the new Tip Top Tailors manufacturing facility located on Lake Shore Boulevard in the city's west end. The building was designed by the prominent Toronto architecture firm, Chapman and Oxley, who were known for their work on several other notable Toronto landmarks, including the Imperial Bank of Commerce building and the Royal York Hotel.

The Tip Top Lofts building was designed in the Art Deco style, which was popular during the 1920s and 1930s. The building's exterior features a distinctive horizontal banding pattern and includes several ornate decorative elements, such as the terracotta medallions depicting various trades and industries.

The building's interior was designed to be a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for the Tip Top Tailors Company. The building's expansive windows allowed natural light to flood the factory floor, providing a bright and airy workspace for the company's employees.

The Tip Top Tailors Company continued to operate in the building until the 1970s when it moved its manufacturing operations to a new facility outside of the city. The building was then used for various industrial purposes until it was purchased in the early 2000s by Context Development Inc., who saw the potential to transform the building into a unique residential space.

Transformation into the Tip Top Lofts

In the early 2000s, Context Development Inc. began the process of converting the Tip Top Lofts building into a residential space. The building's conversion was led by the prominent Toronto architecture firm, Quadrangle Architects, who worked closely with Context Development Inc. to preserve many of the building's original features while creating modern living spaces.

The Tip Top Lofts building was transformed into 256 residential units, ranging from studio apartments to multi-level penthouses. The building's conversion preserved many of its original features, including the expansive windows, exposed brick walls, and massive wooden beams. The building's Art Deco exterior was also restored to its original glory, including the terracotta medallions and decorative elements.

The building's conversion also included the addition of modern amenities, such as a fitness centre, rooftop terrace, and underground parking. The rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of Lake Ontario and the Toronto skyline, has become one of the building's most popular features.

The Tip Top Lofts building's conversion was completed in 2006 and quickly became one of Toronto's most sought-after residential spaces. The building's unique combination of historic character and modern amenities has attracted a diverse group of residents, from young professionals to retirees.

Imperial Lofts, located at 90 Sherbourne St in Toronto, is a historic building that has undergone several transformations over the years. Originally built as a factory in the early 1900s, the building was later converted into a warehouse before being transformed into the residential loft building that it is today. In this essay, we will discuss the history of Imperial Lofts at 90 Sherbourne St in Toronto.

Early History of the Building: The building that is now known as Imperial Lofts was originally built in the early 1900s as a factory for the Imperial Optical Company. The building was designed by noted architect E. J. Lennox, who was responsible for many of Toronto's most iconic buildings, including Casa Loma and Old City Hall.

The Imperial Optical Company was a major manufacturer of eyewear and optical instruments and was one of the largest employers in the area at the time. The factory produced a wide range of products, including eyeglasses, microscopes, telescopes, and binoculars.

Conversion to a Warehouse: In the 1950s, the Imperial Optical Company moved its operations to a new facility and the building at 90 Sherbourne St was converted into a warehouse. The building was used to store a variety of goods, including textiles, furniture, and household appliances.

During this time, the building underwent several renovations and modifications to accommodate its new use as a warehouse. Many of the original architectural features were removed or covered up, including the large arched windows that had been a signature feature of the building's design.

Conversion to Residential Lofts: In the 1990s, a new trend emerged in Toronto's real estate market - the conversion of old industrial buildings into residential lofts. The building at 90 Sherbourne St was an ideal candidate for this type of transformation, due to its large size, unique design, and central location.

The building was purchased by a developer in the late 1990s and underwent a major renovation to transform it into a residential loft building. The renovation involved restoring many of the building's original architectural features, including the large arched windows and exposed brick walls.

The resulting building, known as Imperial Lofts, featured 65 loft-style units with high ceilings, large windows, and industrial design features. The building also included several amenities, including a rooftop terrace, fitness center, and party room.

Impact of Imperial Lofts: The conversion of the building at 90 Sherbourne St into Imperial Lofts had a significant impact on the surrounding area. It helped to revitalize a formerly underutilized building and transformed it into a desirable residential living space. The trend towards loft conversions also helped to drive up property values in the area, which attracted more investment and development.

Imperial Lofts also helped to preserve an important piece of Toronto's architectural history. The building's restoration and transformation into residential lofts allowed many of its original design features to be saved and showcased.

The building's location in the St. Lawrence neighborhood of Toronto also helped to contribute to the area's ongoing revitalization. The St. Lawrence neighborhood is a historic area that has undergone significant changes in recent years, with new development and investment helping to transform the area into a vibrant and diverse community.

The history of Imperial Lofts at 90 Sherbourne St in Toronto is a fascinating example of how a historic building can be transformed and repurposed for modern use. From its early days as a factory for the Imperial Optical Company to its current status as a desirable residential loft building, the building has undergone several transformations over the years. The building's restoration and conversion into residential lofts helped to preserve an important piece of Toronto's architectural history and contributed to the ongoing revitalization of the surrounding area.

January, February, March 2023 - Loft selling prices in Toronto:

• 66 Portland St: $399,000.00
• 109 Wolseley St: $579,999.00
• 1029 King St W: $588,000.00
• 284 St Helen's Ave: $599,000.00
• 400 Wellington St W: $599,900.00
• 150 Sudbury St: $599,900.00
• 284 St Helens Ave: $600,000.00
• 25 Stafford St: $629,000.00
• 183 Dovercourt Rd: $629,000.00
• 111 Bathurst St: $639,900.00
• 5 Hanna Ave: $649,000.00
• 5 Hanna Ave: $649,900.00
• 5 Hanna Ave: $659,990.00
• 901 Queen St W: $698,998.00
• 23 Brant St: $699,900.00
• 637 Lake Shore Blvd W: $699,999.00
• 637 Lake Shore Blvd W: $749,000.00
• 25 Oxley St: $749,900.00
• 75 Portland St: $759,990.00
• 955 Queen St W: $769,000.00
• 38 Abell St: $779,000.00
• 954 King St W: $824,900.00
• 388 Richmond St W: $835,000.00
• 60 Bathurst St: $838,000.00
• 169 John St: $865,000.00
• 5 Hanna Ave: $885,900.00
• 43 Hanna Ave: $1,040,000.00
• 993 Queen St W: $1,250,000.00

The Candy Factory Lofts, located in Toronto’s West Queen West neighborhood, have become an iconic symbol of the city’s urban renewal and adaptive reuse movement. Originally built in the late 1800s, the building has a rich and varied history, reflecting the changing economic and social landscape of Toronto over the past century. In this essay, we will explore the fascinating history of the Candy Factory Lofts, from its origins as a confectionery factory to its current status as one of Toronto’s most sought-after residential buildings.

The Candy Factory Lofts building was originally constructed in 1907 by the Williams Candy Company, a local confectionery business that had been founded by Charles Williams in the late 1800s. The building was designed by noted architect David Roberts Jr., who was responsible for a number of prominent commercial and industrial buildings in Toronto at the time. The Candy Factory was an important part of the city’s thriving confectionery industry, which had been growing steadily since the mid-1800s.

The Candy Factory was a state-of-the-art facility at the time, with modern amenities like an elevator, electric lighting, and a sprinkler system. The factory produced a wide range of candy products, including chocolates, caramels, hard candies, and chewing gum. The Williams Candy Company was known for its high-quality products and innovative marketing strategies, which included creating customized candies for special occasions and events.

Throughout the early part of the 20th century, the Candy Factory continued to thrive, even as the confectionery industry in Toronto began to face increased competition from larger companies. In the 1930s, the building was sold to the Life Savers Company, which was founded in the United States in 1912 and had recently expanded into the Canadian market. Life Savers was known for its iconic circular candy mints, which had become a popular treat around the world.

Under Life Savers’ ownership, the Candy Factory was expanded and modernized, with new machinery and equipment installed to keep up with demand. The building’s distinctive red brick exterior was also painted white, giving it a new, more modern appearance. Life Savers continued to produce its popular candy mints at the Candy Factory for many years, until the 1960s when the company began to consolidate its operations and move towards more modern facilities.

After Life Savers moved out of the building, the Candy Factory was sold to a number of different companies over the years, including a warehouse and distribution center for pharmaceutical products and a printing company. However, by the 1990s, the building had fallen into disrepair, and the surrounding neighborhood had become run-down and neglected.

In the mid-1990s, the West Queen West neighborhood began to undergo a dramatic transformation, as artists, musicians, and creative professionals began to move into the area, attracted by the cheap rents and the vibrant, bohemian atmosphere. As the neighborhood began to gentrify, developers began to take notice of the Candy Factory building, recognizing its unique historical and architectural value.

In 2000, the building was purchased by the Vrancor Group, a local development company that specializes in adaptive reuse projects. Vrancor saw the potential in the Candy Factory building and decided to transform it into a mixed-use development, with commercial and residential units. The project was a massive undertaking, as the building had to be completely gutted and renovated, while still preserving many of its original architectural features and historical character.

Over the course of several years, the Candy Factory was transformed into a stunning residential complex, with 123 loft-style apartments, a rooftop terrace, and a range of modern amenities. 

Little Italy is a vibrant neighbourhood in Toronto, known for its lively streets, excellent food, and trendy bars. The area is a popular spot for those looking for unique and spacious living spaces, such as lofts. Here are some options for buying a loft in Little Italy.

Buying a New Loft

One option for buying a loft in Little Italy is to purchase a new construction unit. There are several new developments in the area that offer modern and stylish lofts. These units often come with high-end finishes, state-of-the-art appliances, and unique design features.

One of the most notable new developments in Little Italy is 109OZ. The building offers one and two-bedroom lofts with soaring ceilings, large windows, and open-concept layouts. The building features a rooftop terrace with stunning city views, a fitness centre, and a party room.

Another new development in Little Italy is 8 Gladstone. The building offers one and two-bedroom lofts with high ceilings, polished concrete floors, and stainless steel appliances. The building features a rooftop terrace with a BBQ area and a fitness centre.

Buying a Converted Loft

Another option for buying a loft in Little Italy is to purchase a converted loft in a heritage building. Many of the older buildings in the area have been converted into loft spaces, offering unique and spacious living areas with character and charm.

One notable converted loft building in Little Italy is the Candy Factory Lofts. The building was originally a candy factory and was converted into lofts in the late 1990s. The lofts feature exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and large windows. The building also features a rooftop terrace and a fitness centre.

Another converted loft building in Little Italy is the Robert Watson Lofts. The building was originally a candy factory and was converted into lofts in 2007. The lofts feature exposed brick walls, timber beams, and large windows. The building also features a rooftop terrace and a fitness centre.

Buying a Soft Loft

Soft lofts are a hybrid between a traditional loft and a modern condo. They offer loft-style living with modern amenities and finishes. Soft lofts are a popular option for those looking for a unique living space without the maintenance and upkeep that comes with a traditional loft.

One notable soft loft building in Little Italy is the Motif Lofts and Towns. The building offers one and two-bedroom lofts with high ceilings, large windows, and modern finishes. The building features a rooftop terrace with BBQs and stunning city views, a fitness centre, and a party room.

Another soft loft building in Little Italy is the Art Condos. The building offers one and two-bedroom lofts with open-concept layouts, high ceilings, and large windows. The building features a rooftop terrace with a hot tub and stunning city views, a fitness centre, and a party room.

Buying a Live/Work Loft

Live/work lofts are a popular option for those who run a business or work from home. These lofts offer a unique and spacious living area with a designated workspace. Many live/work lofts in Little Italy are located in heritage buildings and offer character and charm.

One notable live/work loft building in Little Italy is the Argyle Lofts. The building was originally a textile factory and was converted into lofts in 2009. The lofts feature high ceilings, large windows, and a designated workspace. The building also features a rooftop terrace and a fitness centre.

Another live/work loft building in Little Italy is the Brock Lofts. The building was originally a mattress factory and was converted into lofts in 2013. The lofts feature high ceilings, large windows, and a designated workspace. The building also features a rooftop terrace and a fitness centre.