A Midtown Toronto loft in a former office building

Joce and her husband Dave found this Midtown Toronto loft during the pandemic, when there was a lot of competition for homes. The eight-storey building was converted from offices, and some units are still workspaces.

The loft has 11-foot ceilings with the ductwork and wiring left exposed. Windows face west, south and east, so their many plants do well, and extra blinds keep the bedroom cooler in summer. Sliding black metal doors with pipe handles close off each room.

The previous owners left much of the design in place, and the couple chose to keep it. A poured-concrete kitchen island and dining table can't move, and both have power built in. One holds the microwave and the other a small drinks fridge. The custom dining chairs, the built-in bed and a large wardrobe came with the unit too. In the kitchen, black walls set the cooking area apart from the white open plan.

They added their own story. A colourful painting came home from an art market in Argentina, rolled up across three flights. Art by Joce's aunt and uncle hangs in the den, along with Dave's instrument collection. They bought the bookshelves from a neighbour down the hall.