1183 Dufferin Street

While the phrase “authentic hard loft” often conjures up images of hip couples living in former factory spaces, a select few conversions are of yet another breed. Already unique for their mystical qualities, church-to-loft conversions are harder to come by as well, making homes like the Sanctuary Lofts all the more sacred.

Originally built in the early 1900s, the architect behind the Dufferin Street Presbyterian Church was William R. Gregg — responsible for a number of other remarkable places of worship around the city in the late 1800s and into the turn of the 20th century. The structure has since been designated a heritage building, due to its distinctive style and status as a local landmark.

Today, 14 Toronto lofts with direct street access take up residence at 1183 Dufferin Street thanks to Concept Loft Developments. With both the exterior and the name hinting at the structure’s former function, the Sanctuary Lofts are comprised of 10 units in the original church building, along with 4 in a new addition to the east.

Each of the Sanctuary Lofts spans either 2 or 3 storeys, and can range from anywhere between 600 and 1,750 square feet in size. These Toronto condos for sale are rather large due to the building being divided into such an intimate number of units. Adding to the sense of space are high ceilings that reach up to 9 feet tall, with skylights allowing natural sunlight to beam down through 3-level units.

While the structure of this heritage building is preserved for onlookers to admire, residents deserve all of the contemporary features of a modern-day home. Thankfully, the red brick exterior of the Neo-Gothic church is carefully juxtaposed with updated interiors.

Dovercourt & Wallace Emerson-Junction is an up-and-coming neighbourhood that still benefits from being slightly under the radar. Just removed enough from downtown, this neighbourhood is trendy and charming, and nighttime noise is kept to a minimum.

Mainly residential, the area still affords locals with just enough entertainment. Local shops, bakeries, cafés, restaurants, and even bars can be found along Wallace Avenue and Bloor Street West.

From here, residents at 1183 Dufferin Street can easily reach other exciting areas as well, such as High Park North and Roncesvalles, Christie Pits and Korea Town, and more.

Only a few blocks to the south of the Sanctuary Lofts is Dufferin subway station on the Bloor-Danforth line. From here, trains carry passengers both east and west, while buses making stops here travel in various directions around the city.

Drivers living at 1183 Dufferin can make use of major arterial roads such as Dupont, Bloor, and Dufferin Streets, in order to make their way about Toronto. The Gardiner Expressway is also nearby, which can be reached via Jameson Avenue. From here, residents have access to the Don Valley Parkway and the 427 for travel outside of Toronto proper.