1001 Roselawn Avenue

Art Deco may have reached its peak popularity in the 1920s and 30s, however, today buildings that embrace this style are desirable for their scarcity and uniqueness. With much of Toronto’s industrial architecture reflecting techniques from the Victorian era, the rarity of this type of aesthetic is just one element that draws buyers to the Forest Hill Lofts.

Yet another enticing aspect is the location of these hard lofts. If Art Deco industrial architecture is rare in Toronto, hard lofts in midtown Toronto are in even shorter supply. Located in the Briar Hill & Belgravia neighbourhood, nearby to where the Allen meets Eglinton Avenue West, these homes stand out amongst their single-family home neighbours.

Initially a textile factory, this authentic conversion was repurposed in 2003 before its 137 homeowners could move in. From the exterior alone, one can imagine the building at 1001 Roselawn Avenue serving its former purpose. Groups of 16 horizontally oriented windowpanes make up the majority of the façade, today hinting at the sunlit homes that lie within.

The building dates back to 1932, constructed for Coats Paton and their textile-making endeavours. Up until 1999—long after many industrial buildings in the downtown core had closed or moved to the suburbs — the mid-rise structure operated as a factory. So what happened during the four-year gap before the structure’s industrial-to-residential reincarnation? Residents will be happy to show you, as they point out their building during movie night.

Due to its size, developers were able to make room for common amenities in the building. While many hard loft owners make due without any extras, residents of the Forest Hill Lofts can enjoy a workout in their gym, a rest on the rooftop terrace, and even a chance to play host in the party room. What’s more, those living at 1001 Roselawn will find ample parking spaces for themselves as well as their guests.

Within the 5-storey, L-shaped structure at 1001 Roselawn Avenue, the units are prototypical of any authentic loft. Unlike their neighbours, the homes show off industrial elements with pride. Exposed ductwork and concrete columns and floors are illuminated by bright sunlight beaming through expansive windows.

The sizes of the Toronto lofts for sale at the Forest Hill Lofts may not be shocking, however they are impressive compared to their price (thanks again to their mid-town location). Floor plans range from approximately 650 to 1,100 square feet, with certain lofts comprising two levels. These multi-storey lofts feature metal staircases to enhance the industrial vibe further.

One more advantage of the building’s former use is the need for high ceilings in factories. While room for machinery and storage was created in the early 20th century, millennial buyers living at 1001 Roselawn can now enjoy an added sense of opulence and spaciousness.

As for outdoor areas, most residents will congregate on the shared rooftop terrace. However, a couple of lucky ones living amongst the upper storeys are granted with private rooftop spaces of their own.

The Briar Hill & Belgravia neighbourhood is one in transition: it has been growing for some time now and shows no signs of slowing. With the Eglinton light-rail on its way, plus the recent surge of contemporary housing, families, older cohorts, and young professionals alike have all been gravitating toward the area in recent years.

Those in south facing units can attest to the close proximity of the Forest Hill Lofts to sufficient green space. In fact, anyone living at 1001 Roselawn knows this to be true, as a few steps will land residents at Walter Saunders Memorial Park and the York Beltline Trail.

Along Eglinton West, a range of businesses are prepared to suit any need. Just west of the Allen is the York-Eglinton BIA, host to an array of Latin, Caribbean, and Italian restaurants and shops. To the east, residents of the Forest Hill Lofts can find anything from casual pubs to sushi, bagels, salons, markets, and more.

With the Allen right next door, car-owning residents can access the 401 in no time. From here, Pearson International Airport, the Don Valley Parkway, and neighbouring cities and towns are within reach.

Even those without a vehicle of their own are in good shape. In just over 10 minutes, residents can walk to Eglinton West station on the University-Spadina line. And in about 20 minutes on the subway, passengers can find themselves at Union Station.

As well, the Eglinton Crosstown LRT line is slated for completion in 2021. This route will travel both underground and aboveground, offering an ideal east-west route for those living at the Forest Hill Lofts.