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VALERIE HAUCH
TORONTO STAR
Historic, genuine loft conversions are not so rare in Toronto. But add to the mix a location that’s smack dab in the middle of a leafy residential community and The Abbey Lofts – carved out of a former church – could be rightly said to have assumed a holier-than-thou attitude, compared to other such conversions, normally located in former industrial locations.
In addition to its 384 Sunnyside Ave. address, The Abbey has other features which make it a unique project. Some of the 24 suites in the former Howard Park Methodist church, built in 1910, are multi-level, some have original stained glass windows and peaked roofs, some have two-feet-thick exposed limestone and brick walls, or exposed wood and steel trusses and there are two bell tower units. Many units have balconies or discreet terraces, while some have outdoor patios.
From the outside, the heritage building maintains its stately profile but the units have open-concept layouts in the principal areas, some incorporating up to 24-foot vaulted ceilings, engineered flooring (broadloom in bedrooms), stainless steel appliances, kitchen islands, individual security systems and more. Some have fireplaces.
Roofs have been insulated from the outside in certain areas, to allow exposed struts to show.
“No two suites are alike,” says Edwin Brdlik, whose company, Toronto Lofts Realty Corp., is handling sales for the developer, Abbey Inc. “There’s certain romanticism in living in a (former) church,” says Brdlik, who jokingly adds, “especially if you have a lot to atone for.”
But although its walls may be steeped in prayer, there is nothing austere in the bright Loft units which have been designed to incorporate natural light.
Most master suites have ensuite bathrooms. All units have deep soaker tubs, one piece, low-volume toilets, designer cabinetry, faucets, fixtures and decor. The bathrooms also contain cultured vanity countertops and glass shower enclosures.
Kitchens offer granite countertops, ceramic backsplash, track lighting and custom cabinetry.
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 Some units feature the church’s original stained glass windows
The exterior windows have been architecturally designed and the light fixtures throughout the units have been designer selected. There are sliding glass doors and/or wood doors to access garden patios, terraces and outdoor areas.
There are still seven units available at The Abbey, from 1,025 square feet to 2,200 square feet, priced from $469,900 to $999,900. A heated underground parking spot is included with the units.
Maintenance fees are 33 cents a square foot. Those interested can stop by and view the six finished lofts on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Call 416-538-5638 or go to theabbeylofts.ca.
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