233 Carlaw Avenue

Without compromising its integrity, the developers behind the Garment Factory Lofts managed to revitalize this historical structure into residential homes fit for modern day urbanites. Okay, so Atria and Core Architects might have had some limitations thanks to the heritage status of the structure at 233 Carlaw Avenue. Regardless, this dynamic duo has managed to carve breath fresh life into something constructed long ago.

During the conversion process, 233 Carlaw Avenue was even outfitted with an additional four storeys atop the original four. Technically speaking, then, the Garment Factory Lofts is comprised of a mixture of both hard and soft lofts, and this concoction reflects the dynamism of the neighbourhood and even the city itself.

The building received its makeover back in 2008, when the standards for lofts in Toronto had already been set high. Thankfully Atria Developments managed to blend innovation with preservation in order for this loft to come out on top. Even Christopher Hume, the Toronto Star’s hard-hitting real estate critic, was impressed with the results.

It doesn’t take a qualified critic to see the beauty in the Garment Factory Lofts, though. The classic red brick base and its mid-19th century origins will impress traditionalists, while the modern glass-clad addition will appeal to those in search of something a little more modern.

This hybrid loft at 233 Carlaw Avenue hold 150 homes to suit a variety of needs and tastes. Even those after the historical aspects will be glad to hear about the contemporary amenities on offer. Perks of ownership includes access to a gym, party room, concierge, barbecue hookups for balconies, and visitor parking.

The lofts at 233 Carlaw Avenue don’t only vary in style — they also range quite drastically in size. Buyers looking for anything from 450 to 1,300 square feet will be pleased with what Toronto condos for sale in this building have to offer.

While these lofts were once marketed and sold as blank slates, the building has been around for some time now, meaning previous owners have personalized each one. As a result, every home at the Garment Factory Lofts differs from the next, setting the building even further apart from the typical cookie cutter condo.

Some remaining elements from times past include exposed ductwork and concrete ceilings and floors. Hardwood can also be found throughout certain units, and ceilings reach to 11 feet high. Windows extending from wall to wall brighten loft with warm natural lighting, contrasting perfectly with the industrial finishes. And finally, each of the 150 units at 233 Carlaw is outfitted with an outdoor are of some sort: certain lofts contain charming balconies perfect for two, while others boast private rooftop terraces.

Unique as the building itself is the neighbourhood surrounding the Garment Factory Lofts. The area even has a high concentration of authentic hard lofts, providing this east-end locale with an interesting streetscape.

In general, Leslieville & South Riverdale can be described as eccentric, quirky, and even odd — but in the best way possible. Once known as the home of Toronto’s lighting industry, this area sandwiched between The Beaches and the West Don Lands is now famous for its laid back atmosphere and neighbourly vibes.

Independent shops are more prevalent than big-box stores on Queen East, meaning residents can support local business while stocking up for the week. For those who require some inexpensive staples, however, No Frills and WalMart can both be reached in about a 10-minute walk.

With its location on Carlaw, and equidistant from Queen and Gerrard Streets, those living at the Garment Factory Lofts have access to multiple routes for traveling around the city. Streetcars running on both of these roads will carry passengers toward the Yonge subway line, at Queen and College Stations, respectively.

Drivers, on the other hand, are luckily within close proximity to the Don Valley Parkway. From here, residents can zoom north toward the 401 or south to the Gardiner Expressway. When traffic is light, those heading out of the country can even reach Pearson International Airport in less than 30 minutes. Alternatively, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is only about a 10-minute drive away.

While Carlaw itself might not be equipped with bike lanes, Logan Avenue — just slightly west — does. For east-west bicycle travel, Dundas is another ideal route. And as for those hoping for a more scenic cycle, the Martin Goodman Trail can easily be reached, which hugs the southern edge of Lake Ontario and spans the width of the entire city.