From The Condo Guide Magazine

There is something very alluring about heritage architecture in Toronto. The century-old factories that were once a hub of activity are simply gorgeous buildings. And while urbanization has obviously made it necessary for most of those century-old factories to close their doors and move to the ‘burbs, those buildings left behind – with such amazing character and beauty – are just waiting for new vitality. It takes vision, passion and the kind of forward thinking that Streetcar Developments is bringing to Corktown to reinvent these glorious old structures.

Corktown is a great east-end community, nestled in between Parliament and The Don River. The area is rich with history, because of its proximity to the waterfront – it was key in an era of manufacturing. There are several old factories around Queen Street that fell out of use, just waiting for a new purpose.

Streetcar Developments envisioned them as lofts. Reinventing them as loft conversions with character, the industrial chic of these factory-cum-loft-conversion projects are already experiencing great success. Area projects The Edge Lofts and Riverside Lofts have both proven to be quite successful, demonstrating that Streetcar Developments understands exactly what loft purchasers are looking for.

Streetcar Developments launched The Queen City Vinegar Co. Lofts on September 30 and found it to be a huge hit. People have just been waiting for these buildings to be converted, and were all over this opportunity on opening weekend. So much so, that a huge percentage of the 38 available lofts were snapped up.

It’s an easy decision when it comes to a one-of-a-kind building like The Queen City Vinegar Co. Lofts. The neighbourhood is a charmer. New retail, some swish restaurants and some genuine care and attention are bringing a fresh vibrancy to the area.

The Toronto Waterfront Revitalization Project is also bringing renewal to the surrounding community. River Street will continue to the south with new retail and more parks. The West Donlands are a huge feature of the community. They’ve started getting cleaned up, with the old, degenerated areas being demolished and a plan of renewal set in motion.

With the whole area going through gentrification and resurgence in vitality, it’s no wonder that such a gorgeous little building is catching the eye of the loft market.

The three-storey building with Queen City Vinegar Co. Limited etched above its entrance has opened its doors to a new generation of inhabitants – a much different purpose than the building had when its doors originally opened in 1907. The three-storey building has begun renovation and restoration, and buyers are interested. There are 38 lofts in all, with two new floors added to the three-storey building.

Rather than divide the designs by ‘new building’ and ‘old building,’ the lofts on the new floors will be given the same character and unique attributes that are found in the original three floors. Reclaimed brick from the original building will be used to create walls in the new floors, maintaining the authenticity of this hard loft conversion.

Polished concrete floors complement the wood post-and-beam ceilings. Exposed ducting adds the industrial chic finish that lends credence and cool to any loft conversion project. Large windows take in amazing cityscapes and views of The Don.

Lofts range from 624 to 1,030 sq. ft. First-floor lofts boast soaring 14-ft. ceilings, second and third floors a respectable 12-ft. ceilings and the fourth and fifth boast 10-ft. ceilings, all enhancing the spaciousness of these lofts.

Almost all lofts include their own balcony or terrace. Perfect for stepping out for the view or some sunshine, balconies and terraces are furniture-sized so you can entertain company or serve brunch outdoors. Some terraces are enormous, an unusual find in a conversion project.

Not simply relying on the beauty of the architecture, the appointments and finishes of these lofts are spectacular. Stainless steel appliances are shown off properly in these open-concept designs, where funky floor plans often include an island for functionality. Stone countertops are incredible and kitchens are finished with high-end cabinetry.

One of the major draws of any loft conversion project is that homes are unique and full of personality. A visit to the sales centre lets you see how The Queen City Vinegar Co. Lofts has departed from the traditional condo suite. The presentation centre is spectacular, and the model loft allows you to feel the expansiveness of the room, the height of the ceilings and the sunlight that pours through huge windows.

Accents like a sliding barn door, finished in opaque glass, closes off the bedroom. There’s a smart little niche that creates a perfect office space without overwhelming the living space – all are innovative loft features that accommodate your lifestyle. These are, after all, live/work lofts. With the downtown locale and the comforts of home, these are an ideal fit for what’s becoming a common lifestyle choice.

Visit The Queen City Vinegar Co. Lofts and see for yourself. The gorgeous model will make it hard to resist, and with such brisk sales, the opportunity won’t last long.

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Contact Laurin Jeffrey for more information