Annex catholic school undergoes conversion
By Sydnia Yu – The Globe and Mail
School has long been out of session at Loretto College, a former all-girls institute on Brunswick Avenue, but two developers hope to bring a different type of class to the establishment.
Empire Communities and Fovere Capital Management Inc. are converting the now empty building into Schoolhouse Lofts, which Karen Kessel, vice-president of marketing for Empire Communities, describes as “a very unique” retrofitting.
The property, which had been vacant for a couple years, was built in the early 1950s. The interiors were gutted to install new components, such as plumbing and wiring, and two levels were added to the three-storey structure to accommodate two-level penthouses with terraces of up to 800 square feet.
But its brick and precast stone exterior, which shows both art deco and modern influences, were preserved, says Suresh Singh, president of Fovere Capital Management.
The Schoolhouse Lofts have only have 19 suites, Ms. Kessel explains. “They’re very spacious suites and they offer a lot of architectural elements that create the charisma and feeling of the building.” Outside, there is a private courtyard with a landscaped garden and fountain.
The Schoolhouse Lofts is intimate, boutique-style loft residence in a sought-after location within an established residential community surrounded by mature trees. “The Annex is known in Toronto as one of the most livable… and desirable neighbourhoods in the city,” Ms. Kessel says, adding: “This is the only loft project available in the area right now.”
Suites run from one-bedroom to two bedrooms with a den, but Schoolhouse Lofts purchasers were not limited to those models. “We were open to sitting down with people and their designers and taking a look at the floor plans and giving [them] the ability to design their own living space to fit their lifestyle,” Ms. Kessel says.
Interiors by award-winning 3rd Uncle Design Inc. will feature smooth nine- and 10-foot ceilings, full-height windows and open-concept spaces. Schoolhouse Lofts units will have at least one balcony or terrace, while some will have direct street access for a brownstone feel. “It’s all about an extension of living space, particularly being in that type of established residential area where people will be able to go outside and sit and enjoy the atmosphere,” Ms. Kessel says.
Floor finishes included engineered hardwood, 40-ounce broadloom, and ceramic, limestone or granite tiles. Schoolhouse Lofts kitchens feature granite or quartz countertops and stainless-steel appliances, including a gas range.The monthly maintenance is around 47 cents a square foot. The cost of each suite includes parking; the two largest penthouses each come with two spots. Lockers are available at $5,000.
Additional amenities are steps away, including shops, eateries and nightclubs in the Bloor-Yorkville district.
————————————————————————————————–———-
