A true loft is a “hard loft”. It is a conversion from an old warehouse or factory existing of solid concrete construction, or “mill” construction of exposed brick and original wood posts, beams and floors. Ceiling heights are at least 10 feet high, unfinished and all pipes and heating ducts are exposed. Most are open concept rather than small divided rooms which helps to give the feeling of air and space. A great thing about hard lofts is that most are zoned as live/work which means you can operate a business out of your home.

“Soft Lofts” are simply new construction condos with high ceilings (maybe 9 ft), and sometimes walls of glass windows. They do not have the original character or charm of a hard loft and often the finishes and quality of construction is disappointing. The only real feature of these new construction soft lofts is the location since most “hard loft”conversions are not close to subway lines or upscale Toronto neighbourhoods.