defn.:~ Most people look at lofts in one of two categories:

1) A true loft (or "hard" loft), which to me is the only kind of loft, and that is: a conversion of a vintage factory or warehouse, having a harder edge of either concrete construction, or "mill" construction of exposed brick and original wood posts, beams and floors. Here, authentic details and atmosphere is everything.

Ceilings should be over ten feet high at least - a nine foot ceiling does not a loft make. This is increasingly very important for loft purchasers, as developers are now building condos with slightly higher ceilings than in the past. I am predicting that in the future we will talk about lofts in terms of cubic foot space, rather than just square footage. It is the height that helps give a loft the feeling of air and space. Larger windows and open concept layouts also help. Ceilings are unfinished and pipes and heating ducts are exposed.

Do not expect to find a 1,000 square foot loft divided up into two bedrooms and a den. It will much more likely have a kitchen and a bathroom with the rest of the space left as one large open room, which you can work with and use according to your own functions and needs. Some people think a loft means you have a second mezzanine level overlooking the floor below, but this is simply one style of loft.

The other great thing about lofts is that most of them are zoned live/work, which makes it easier to operate a business out of your home. As a tax write off, it will be much more straight forward for your accountant and for Revenue Canada.

For examples of loft conversion buildings, click here for LOFTS - CONVERSIONS.

2) Newly constructed lofts (or "soft lofts"), most of which I call "Condos With High Ceilings", and are examples of condo developers trying to cash in on the popularity of lofts.

Most lofts built from scratch have very little character, and in most cases, the ceilings aren't even all that high. The quality of construction is sometimes disappointing, and quite often the location is really the only selling point, since vintage lofts are usually a little off the beaten track, not in the best neighbourhoods.

However, there are a few outstanding newer buildings in Toronto, with some loft-style features. To find out more, click on LOFTS - RECENT CONSTRUCTION.