The Loft: Coming Of Age

Once the mainstay of the arts communities, loftsceilings also figure largely into the ambiance of lofts
have come of age and are now one of the mostalong with other industrial features.
popular home types anywhere. The term "loft" inThe popularity of lofts has lead to the loft condo
general refers to an area that is usually a large openconstruction boom that has been evident around the
space that is adaptable for many different uses.country. In fact, lofts have become so sought-after
Artists used them as live/work spaces for manythat there are simply not enough old industrial sites
years and they gained particular notoriety for this inavailable to cope with the demand and so new loft
the 1960's. Then, for a number of years loftsbuildings are being built using the same design
disappeared from the public eye only to resurfaceprinciples as the older buildings. Many have said that
with a vengeance in the latter 1990's. The exactthese "new lofts" do not have the same feeling and
reason for this popularity is unknown but lofts areatmosphere of the old buildings, but that is very
back for good and buyers and developers alike aremuch a decision that is personal.
getting a piece of the action.The simple truth is that lofts are here to stay. With
One of the big factors in the resurgence of loftscities growing both upward and outwards the need
would have to be the availability of old abandonedfor apartment-style housing is on the rise and lofts
warehouse space in many American cities. True loftsare a great way to enjoy an open floor plan home
are always converted from this kind of building.that does not feel crowded while remaining within the
There are new loft projects that expertly mimic thecity core.
grandiose style of turn of the century buildings butAndy Asbury is a professional real estate agent who
the same effect is hard to achieve. Lofts generallyspecializes in Minneapolis Lofts & Condos. The Asbury
have a few things in common; concrete or brickGroup is dedicated to the highest level customer
construction is prominently featured along withservice and supplying an elite level of service in the
exposed ductwork and plumbing. Concrete floors andMinneapolis real estate market.