Where smart lofts match your lifestyle

Your loft has got to make the grade. A combination of a great community, spectacular architecture and exquisite features – and nothing less – will do. The Schoolhouse Lofts is precisely that. A gorgeous loft conversion project at Bloor and Spadina, in the Annex, the site was originally Loretto College.

Opened in 1915, it was home to a reputedly prestigious private girls’ school. But class is out, the bell’s rung its final time and the school has moved to a new facility more in keeping with its academic requirements.

While this building will no longer be reserved for the hallowed halls of higher education, it will take on a new kind of class – the class and sophistication of discerning homebuyers who recognize the allure of this unique loft conversion project. With construction about to start this fall, the Schoolhouse Lofts is becoming very popular.

This loft conversion project fits so seamlessly into its community. There’s a history, an authenticity and an architecture that has played a part in the development of a community. It doesn’t try to ingratiate itself into the streetscape, it’s a foundation of the streetscape.

The Schoolhouse Lofts is a unique project in the Annex that will offer only 19 lofts, several of which have already been snapped up by purchasers. The gorgeous Victorian architecture makes this building an impeccable choice. The surrounding school grounds create a perfect green setting instead of other buildings immediately abutting this residence.

Empire Communities and Fovere Capital Management Inc., two companies with traditions of innovative and successful developments across the GTA and Southwestern Ontario, chose Canada’s 2005 Designer of the Year, 3rd Uncle, to design this community.

A visionary approach was taken to transition this site from school to residence. Instead of small suites dividing the space to maximum capacity, the four levels of living space were divided into 19 large lofts.

This new residential presence won’t overrun the community with a high population density and it will afford purchasers the opportunity to have an expansive home – not a prevalent type of condo property in this community or, for that matter, the GTA. Many of these one and two-storey lofts will be comparable to houses within the area – only without the maintenance.

Businesses in the community should enjoy the change. While schoolgirls might not take full advantage, residents will love area amenities. Great dining, independent shops, boutiques run by up-and-coming designers and artisans, local artists, long-established businesses and necessary services put everything you need in walking distance, and strolling this neighbourhood is an established part of community life.

Dog parks, renowned book stores and Honest Ed’s give flavour to the community. There is also nightlife, theatre and culture. Consider too, the subway line, Yorkville and the financial district just to the east, Little Italy to the south, China Town further down Spadina and Forest Hill to the north. The location puts you in the midst of the city.

At the Schoolhouse Lofts you have the opportunity to purchase a loft that ranges from 1,032 to 2,092 sq. ft. A variety of layouts, including two-storey penthouse designs, are available, each a one-of-a-kind plan, allowing you to use this space as you need. There are one-bedroom plus den, two-bedroom and three-bedroom lofts available, many with large walk-out terraces or balconies so that you can enjoy a private outdoor retreat.

Another fabulous element of a loft conversion project is the spectacular architectural features of the original building. Constructed in an era where soaring ceilings, decorative finishings and fine wood were the standard, suites will enjoy 10-ft. high ceilings and a selection of upscale appointments and features to complement the architecture.

There is a choice of limestone or granite tile for the foyer and all bathrooms, engineered solid hardwood in the living areas, luxurious woven loop or 40-oz. broadloom for bedrooms and ceramics for the laundry and storage. Yes, several suites include actual storage – ample space to keep your seasonal clothing, sports equipment, keepsakes or surplus. A stacked washer-dryer pair is included.

These open-concept designs are unusual and fun. Great decor can be shown off – gourmet kitchens should be showcased – with custom cabinetry available in a wide array of colours and styles, the tall upper cabinetry finished with undermounted valance lighting.

There is finesse in the details, like a ceramic backsplash, the granite or Silestone countertops and islands and breakfast bar overhang, as per plan. The kitchen also includes a stainless steel appliance package, fridge, range – gas or electric, your choice – and an over-the-range microwave/hood fan.

Two-storey lofts feel huge, even beyond their expansive square footage. Overlooking the floor below, master suites and upper retreats provide generous rooms for relaxing and lounging, enjoying a profusion of natural light by day or moonlit night.

Creating an interesting footprint, the floor space below enjoys ceilings that soar double height. Custom stairs and railings in each are finished in a chic combo of rich wood and cool steel, as per plan.

Then there are the features that make life just a little more comfortable. New double-glazed windows bring in gorgeous surroundings. Concrete block party walls keep the neighbour’s noise out. For comfort and security, there is camera surveillance and card access within the building and underground parking, as well as an enterphone system in the lobby for visitors so that the building is secure and access is limited to residents.

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Contact the Jeffrey Team for more information – 416-388-1960

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