1852 Queen Street E

While Toronto’s beaches may not have giant waves for surfing, the area sure has some impressive lofts. Don’t be mistaken; lofts — hard or soft— far from saturate the area. Rather, Streetcar Developments has provided the neighbourhood with a couple of superior residences that epitomize the concept of quality over quantity.

As phase 1 of a 2-part development, the Academy Lane Lofts inhabit an early 90th century structure at 1852 Queen Street East. Together with the Beach House Lofts, the duo gained Streetcar Developments the 2009 award for “Building in Context, Private Mid-Rise.”

Dating back to 1923, the conversion process that resulted in 10 hard lofts took place an impressive three quarters of a century later. Although the final product was named for the building’s former function as a bowling alley, it was in fact a boxing studio prior to this, and an armory even before that. A 2-storey addition was added to the top, for a total of 4 floors, which house commercial spaces along the ground level.

Lofts at 1852 Queen East range from around 800 to 1,700 square foot in size. These homes span either one or two floors each, with those that cover multiple levels boasting mezzanine layouts — rare finds even in the loft market itself. Essential loft features include massive windows, exposed beams and brick, as well as visible ductwork.

Adding to the sense of space in these already sizeable homes are the ceiling heights that reach up to 17-feet. Plus, with their relatively recent construction date, the lofts feature upscale finishes throughout.

Most of the Toronto condos for sale in the Academy Lane Lofts feature private outdoor spaces as well, some in the form of multi-level terraces.

As for those who prefer to spend as much time as possible al-fresco, the lofts are suitably located amidst an ample amount of green space, as well as next to the beach. Woodbine Park and the Kew Gardens are idea grassy spots for picnicking or a game of catch. As well, residents of the Academy Lane Lofts are well positioned to snag the best spot before the rest of the city can make their way over to Woodbine Beach.

The neighbourhood itself is charming, with the only thing that might divide neighbours being an argument over whether they refer to it as the Beach or The Beaches. Regardless, there is a sense of community here that is rare for such a large and densely populated city.

Along Queen East, independent businesses cater to the locals and their diverse needs. From yoga studios to wood-fired bagels, the Beach has it all. The area even lays claim to the oldest running cinema in the city — the Fox Theatre.

Travel to and from Academy Lane Lofts is made easy with Queen Street and Lakeshore as major thoroughfares for westbound travel into the centre of the city. From Lakeshore, drivers can transfer onto the Gardiner Expressway or the Don Valley Parkway. Those who take public transit will appreciate the streetcar stop at Queen and Woodbine, just moments from the front doors of the Academy Lane Lofts.