32 Stewart Street

From the early 1900’s up until the end of World War II, textile and garment factories occupied the area South of Queen Street and East of Bathurst, illustrating just how Toronto’s fashion district received its name.

Today, remnants of the past remain intact through the preservation of these buildings. Since their vacancies following the war, many have become art studios, galleries, and offices. Others have become popular alternatives to traditional condominiums — hard lofts.

Developed by Walter Harhay in 2002, the Stewart Lofts building is one such successful residential conversion. White and Grey brick are paired with long paned windows give 32 Stewart Avenue the advantage of a unique exterior style, while in keeping with the industrial vibe of its neighbours.

The Stewart Lofts consist of 46 magnificent Toronto lofts spread out over 8 floors. Toronto condos for sale here range from 480 square feet junior one bedroom lofts to penthouses over 2,000 square feet in size. Owners of lofts on the North side of the building are fortunate enough to enjoy private balconies, while two-storey penthouse suites possess even larger terraces. According to the talk of the town, one penthouse suite even features a private elevator and swimming pool on its private rooftop.

The interior design of the 32 Stewart Avenue lofts is a juxtaposition of rugged factory space and smooth reconstruction. Unrefined qualities include exposed concrete columns and ceilings that soar up to 10 feet high, as well as exposed ductwork. In contrast, hardwood floors and floor to ceiling windows provide these open concept spaces with a hint of warmth.

Amenities for residents of the Stewart Lofts are minimal in number but important nonetheless, including a concierge and security service working round the clock, as well as a gym, parking garage, and a pet friendly attitude.

Located in King West neighbourhood, those who call 32 Stewart Street home have the city at their doorsteps. Victoria Memorial Park is just a short walk away, while those looking for larger green spaces can easily head over to Trinity Bellwoods Park or Coronation Park on foot. Fort York is also nearby, and home to music festivals as well as the mouth-watering Taste of Toronto.

King West is a place to seen and be seen in Toronto, with new restaurants and bars popping up so fast it can be hard to keep track. Due to the mix of art, business, and residential spaces occupying the area, cultured residents will be thrilled with the abundance of contemporary art galleries such as Gallery 44 or Birch Contemporary, as well as the Stewart Lofts’ proximity to the Art Gallery of Ontario.

While the noise of King Street West’s restaurants and clubs remains in the distance, joining in for dinner or dancing on a whim is always an option. For those that fancy a swim, the Thompson hotel boasts a rooftop pool and bar right around the corner.

Loblaws at Queen and Bathurst or the Kitchen Table on King make grocery shopping slightly less of a chore, while the Thompson Diner is open 24 hours a day for when hunger pangs strike too quickly for cooking.

Conveniently situated near both King Street and Bathurst Street, options for public transit include streetcars along both of these roads, whether directly carrying passengers to final destinations or providing connections to subway stations. St. Andrew Station on the University-Spadina line and Bathurst Station on the Bloor line are not too far, from where travelers have access to the rest of the city with relative ease.

Billy Bishop Airport is extremely close, providing easy access for quick weekend getaways, while the UP service from Union Station connects international jetsetters to Pearson Airport quickly and inexpensively.

Those who drive will be glad to hear that the Gardiner Expressway is located nearby, while Bathurst Street can alternatively be used to access the 401.

Cycling around the neighbourhood is also a great alternative, especially for those who want to avoid traffic during the morning rush to the office.