Address: 1 Columbus Avenue Suite 201
Neighbourhood: Roncesvalles
Price: $1,599,000
Vitals: 1-bedroom + 1-bathrooms, second floor, hard loft with private elevator, 1-car parking

 

Why We Love 1 Columbus Ave Suite 201

You may see plenty of condos that are advertised as lofts, but true hard lofts are hard to find – especially ones that look fantastic. They’re just not that common as you’d think. But Suite 201 in Columbus Lofts at 1 Columbus Ave in Roncesvalles (near Dundas and Sorauren) is an absolute exception – it’s simply a stunning space. The brick and beams highlight the true hard loft feel of this building that was built in 1909. The former baseball glove four-storey factory was converted into 10 live-work lofts in the ’90s, which were all originally sold as empty shells for their owners to customize.

 

One of the features of this hard loft is something that will surely impress your friends and family. Imagine inviting loved ones over for a dinner party or celebration and the elevator opens directly into your unit. Talk about having that custom-feel! We’re only seeing this feature in very high-end condos, so this is definitely a perk for this building. We also loved the open, airy living spaces – the bedroom is massive! With the right design eye, that could be a master retreat to rival some of the penthouses we’ve seen. The chef’s kitchen is perfect for entertaining, whether it be a formal sit-down dinner or cocktails and hors-d’oeuvres. The heated concrete floors are the right touch and should be standard in any hard loft – we’re glad they got this right as it’s a perk you’ll be thankful for come January.

 

This area, known for its small-town European charm is home to many family-owned cafes and shops and as you explore the different boutiques, you may find yourself drawn in by the irresistible aromas that waft out of the local bakeries.
This neighbourhood (formerly known as Little Poland) should definitely be on your weekend to-do list if you have an appetite for Eastern European delicacies such as hand-made perogies, juicy sausages, sauerkraut, cabbage rolls and traditional soups. It is consistently rated one of the best neighbourhoods in Toronto for its family appeal and community feel.

 

There was some debate at the TRB office around choosing 1 Columbus Ave for our Home of the Week Feature. It’s a one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit! But after much discussion, it was obvious this was a gem that will go quickly. We see the right buyer possibly being baby boomers – those just getting out of their massive home outside of the city, and who are looking to downsize to a very unique home. Roncesvalles is perfect for those looking for that small-town community feel, and everything one could need is just steps away. The addition of a second bedroom by splitting off some of the layout is doable, so there is room for the grandkids or visiting friends. Opportunities like this one in the Columbus Lofts don’t come around often, and we’re certain it’s going to go quickly to the right buyer looking for that hard loft feel, but with the warmth and amenities this one has to offer.

 

Clive McLean, Bosley Real Estate