The Brunswick Lofts, a seven-home heritage conversion project, bringing much needed housing to this Toronto neighbourhood of the South Annex. The adaptive reuse project has had a fascinating past as a neighbourhood landmark and community hub. Located at 225 Brunswick Avenue, the 19th century red brick building had, at various points in its history, housed a gospel church, a synagogue, an arts school and offices.
The building had rarely been used when Kopas Developments purchased it to convert it into homes while preserving its architectural character. The building’s former use as a church made it a more challenging conversion than a typical commercial or industrial building. But with that, came a unique opportunity to create seven distinct two-storey residences.
The exterior and interior design has been informed by a mandate to blend modern with heritage. The Brunswick Lofts comprise four garden suites and three penthouses. The two-storey homes give a sense of grandeur and loftiness that honours the building's history as a place of worship. The double-height entrance on Brunswick Avenue is a relic of the building’s life as a synagogue. Original circular windows can be found on the building’s east face. The design embraces the building’s angles, contrasting corners with curves, while prioritizing natural light for each home — a rarity for church conversion projects.
The contemporary living spaces incorporate expertly finished carpentry and exposed bricks. The interior layouts and material choices are largely informed by the existing heritage elements and historic flow of the building. The units range from 994 square feet to 1,557 square feet. They each have Miele appliances, gas cooktops, smart home technology, high-end finishings, and their own dedicated entrances and outdoor spaces.
Team:
Developer: Kopas Developments
Architects: Suulin Architects
Builders: Oben Build
Photographers: Jordan Prussky, Michael Peart
Materials Used:
Facade cladding (metal): Cascadia Metals
Flooring: Roku, Stone-Tile
Doors: Norclad, Norwood Windows and Doors
Windows: Norclad, Norwood Windows and Doors; Optimum Windows
Appliances: Miele
