152 Annette Street

The Victoria Lofts at 152 Annette Street are as regal as the Queen herself. The former Church that contains these present day homes dates back to the 1885, positioning the lofts amongst some of the oldest conversions in the city. Originally the West Toronto Presbyterian Church, the grand house of worship was in fact renamed the Victoria Presbyterian Church in 1897 for Her Highness on her Diamond Jubilee

And while the age is impressive enough just to think about, the exterior exudes a warmth that can only be attributed to a century-long lifetime on the streets of Toronto. The Victoria Lofts building is broken down into 34 Toronto lofts, throughout both the original Church space as well as a brick building affixed to one side.

This hard loft conversion resides within in a well-maintained Victorian-era church, but it only gets better once inside.

While the building looks to be upheld pretty well from the exterior, jaws might even drop once inside the hard lofts at 152 Annette Street. One penthouse suite stuns visitors with its one hundred year old architectural qualities such as authentic wooden hammer beams running along vaulted ceilings, which can be appreciated best by standing in the mezzanine office space above. Yet another penthouse is remarkably situated within what was once the church’s bell tower. These features are not only rare in Toronto condos for sale, they're practically unheard of.

Lofts feature glass finishes, along with modern fixtures in bathrooms and kitchens, in an attempt to update but not outdo the historical qualities of the building itself.

The Victoria Lofts come in one or two-bedroom styles, and range from approximately 600 to 2,500 square feet. Each home welcomes natural light through large windows and causes raw exposed brick walls to glow, while ceilings reach up to 17 feet for an added sense of space.

Amenities that have been added to the Victoria Lofts post-conversion include fireplaces in the units, parking spaces, a communal party room.

The Junction is a neighbourhood that currently enjoys a perfect balance of quiet residential streets, long-time residents, and youthful vigor. Once a hotbed for industry due to its proximity to four different railway lines, the Junction is now home to creative young professionals and taste-making families alike.

Like a small village nestled in west end Toronto, the Junction is a neighbourhood with a community-oriented vibe. Neighbours are friendly as ever, and many are even actually on a first name basis with one another. Residents of 152 Annette Street shouldn’t be surprised if shop owners and café workers begin to greet them with more than a big smile after a while.

Residents are also a quick walk away from the myriad of eateries, local boutiques, and dive bars that line Dundas Street West.

For those who enjoy nature, the Junction is not far off from High Park, Toronto’s own 400-acre communal play space. While older homes along tree-lined streets boast large private lawns, those without much green space of their own gather at High Park all year round. The park boasts a zoo, ice rinks, a swimming pool, sports fields, and more.

Nearby, the Sunnyside Pavilion along on the lakeshore is enjoying a revival of its own. The 1922-built swimming facilities were renovated in 1980, and today comprise a popular spot for boardwalk strolls and sunbathing by the beach or the public swimming pool.

Walking back from the lake, residents can make a pit stop at any of the number of independent cafes and restaurant that line the slower-paced Roncesvalles Avenue.

In terms of more practical facilities (yes, we do mean chores), Tim & Sue’s No Frills on Pacific Avenue is steps away from the Victoria Lofts, making grocery shopping less painful than ever. Independent shops and produce markets also line Bloor Street West, Dundas Street, and Roncesvalles Avenue for those after something extra fresh.

Getting around the Junction and surrounding areas on foot is ideal. For those moving a little farther, or in need of some extra speed, cycling is a great option with streets a little less crowded than those closer to the downtown core.

For public transit users, TTC routes along Dundas West transport travelers to High Park station, from which they can access the rest of the city by way of the subway. Keele station is another great option, on the Bloor-Danforth subway line as well, and both of these stations are within walking distance of 152 Annette Street.

Those making great use of the parking spaces at the Victoria Lofts can easily access the Gardiner Expressway with a quick drive down Keele Street. Drivers will also love taking advantage of Dundas and Bloor Streets West in order to access other areas of downtown Toronto.