Apartments with high ceilings and open layouts are often described as "loft-like," a phrase inspired by the homes created in formerly industrial buildings. These lofts are distinguished by their flexible floor plans as well as original details like exposed brick, beamed ceilings, columns, and exposed pipes.
These industrial buildings were first considered livable when artists moved in, attracted by low rents and expansive space they would come to use as live/work studios. This led to the Loft Law designed to protect tenants, and eventually brought glamour to formerly blighted neighborhoods like Soho, Noho, and Tribeca - artists like William Wegman, Michael Somoroff, and Julian Schnabel are among former loft-dwellers.
These industrial buildings were first considered livable when artists moved in, attracted by low rents and expansive space they would come to use as live/work studios. This led to the Loft Law designed to protect tenants, and eventually brought glamour to formerly blighted neighborhoods like Soho, Noho, and Tribeca - artists like William Wegman, Michael Somoroff, and Julian Schnabel are among former loft-dwellers.
In this article:
Developed by Iliad Realty Group | Design by BP Architecture
5 availabilities from $7.85 million
5 availabilities from $7.85 million
67 Vestry Street is a classic example of Tribeca's transformation. It was originally built in the late 19th century for the Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company, and served as the creative center of Tribeca in the 1970s when Andy Warhol, John Chamberlain, Robert Wilson, and Marisol lived there. The building's rusticated facade has been largely restored for its most recent incarnation, but the high-end finishes and 50-foot lap pool are nothing like the old days. Occupancy is estimated for spring 2022. See all listings here.
168 Plymouth Street
Developed and designed by Alloy
10 availabilities from $2 million
Developed and designed by Alloy
10 availabilities from $2 million
All images of 168 Plymouth via Alloy
Closings have recently commenced at 168 Plymouth, which has been described as "the last loft conversion in DUMBO." Owing to its location in the DUMBO Historic District, the residential conversion and penthouse addition to a former paint factory and daylight factory could not proceed without the approval of the Landmarks Preservation Commission. Upon completion, the facades were restored to their full glory, and the apartments are rich in original details like high ceilings and original beams and columns. The building also offers custom RiFRA kitchens, generous closet space, a lobby lounge, a garden courtyard, and a landscaped roof terrace. See all listings here.
720 Clinton Street
Developed by Prism Capital Partners | Design by MVMK Architecture
4 availabilities from $1.66 million
Developed by Prism Capital Partners | Design by MVMK Architecture
4 availabilities from $1.66 million
All images of Wonder Lofts via Prism Capital Partners
As Hoboken shows, the trend of converting industrial buildings to trendy living space is not limited to New York. The original Wonder Bread factory has been converted to a residential building, though not at the expense of design elements like brick detail, archways, a smokestack, and a water tower. All units come with high ceilings and oversized windows, not to mention designer kitchens, smart home capabilities, private terraces, and a parking space in the building's garage. The crowning glory is a rooftop lounge with infinity-edge pool, grills, fire pits, dining and lounge areas, and outdoor bar.
Homes at Wonder Lofts are priced from $1.2 million for two-bedroom residences, $1.57 million for three-bedroom homes, $2 million for four-bedroom floor plans and $2.39 million for five-bedroom homes. The history, luxury, and views are proving to be powerful lures; the building is already 40 percent sold. See all listings here.
Homes at Wonder Lofts are priced from $1.2 million for two-bedroom residences, $1.57 million for three-bedroom homes, $2 million for four-bedroom floor plans and $2.39 million for five-bedroom homes. The history, luxury, and views are proving to be powerful lures; the building is already 40 percent sold. See all listings here.
All images of Arris Lofts via Douglas Elliman
From the Listing: Welcome to this large 4-room rare prewar condo at the full service Arris Lofts. Towering 15 foot ceilings and wall-to-wall windows perfectly frame this extraordinary loft style, 842-square-foot 4 Room / 1 bath in the heart of Long Island City. There is an additional room that is ideal for a home office/ guest room. The open and bright living room is large enough to have a dining area and has a wall of windows that overlooks the serene courtyard. The bedroom is well sized with plentiful closet space. The apartment is also complete with central HVAC and washer/dryer. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 29 Tiffany Place via Corcoran
From the Listing: This spectacular loft, with a deeded parking space in a gated lot, is located in a quintessential converted warehouse. Set up as a two-bedroom, two-bath loft with a tremendous open living/dining/working area, this apartment can easily be converted to full three bedrooms. Exceptionally renovated, some of the most notable features are the 11' ceilings, exposed wooden beams, hardwood floors, and oversized windows. A gorgeous, yet understated, custom kitchen features solid-cherry millwork, and an elegant butcher-block island with built-in storage for your heaviest cookware. Viking appliances, Lefroy Brooks and Dornbracht fixtures, and a convenient pot filler over the chef's gas range, are surrounded by fine stone countertops and Ann Sacks floor tiles. See floor plan and full details here.
100 Hudson Street via Douglas Elliman
From the Listing: Two-bedroom loft in the heart of Tribeca! Welcome home to this beautiful space with fantastic proportions and tons of character, including high ceilings, huge windows, exposed brick, hardwood floors and two exposures. Enter into a graceful entry foyer and take in the impressive scale of the generous living room, which is the heart of this home, with wonderful views of beaux-arts architecture on historic Franklin Street. The fantastic layout benefits from lots of air thanks to tons of windows and an open design with windows on both the north and south sides. A large bedroom benefits from a walk-in closet and large wall of custom built-ins. The second bedroom is the perfect guest room, nursery or home office. A well proportioned kitchen will make any chef happy. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of Robbins & Appleton Building via Sotheby's International Realty
From the Listing: Located on prime Bond Street overlooking the cobble stone streets below, 1 Bond Street is an exclusive and iconic cast-iron pre-war condo, a rare find. Freedom of movement abounds the ~1,250 square feet with refinished original knotted pine hardwood flooring throughout. Juxtaposed in a contemporary medium gray, strikingly ornamental restored tin ceilings adorned with cornices and accentuated by Corinthian columns soar over twelve and a half feet tall, highlighting the palatial proportions of this former factory floor. An enormously scaled living and dining room showcase the home's potential for hosting at more than eighteen by twenty-four feet. Anchored by a large industrial warehouse pendant, as a nod to the space's ancestry, the open plan kitchen is oriented to maximize storage space featuring warm textural granite countertops, Viking range, Sub-Zero refrigerator, and custom mahogany cabinets with glass panel fronts and handmade custom metal drawer pulls. See floor plan and full details here.
395 Broadway via Compass
From the Listing: Authentic sun-splashed north Tribeca loft with soaring +11-foot ceilings, original cast iron columns, stunning open views, and an expansive flexible floorplan. More than 30' in length, the corner Great Room offers oversized windows with dual western and northern exposures, and has ample space for living, dining, plus an additional alcove that makes for a perfect home office, playroom or den. The kitchen offers white counters, cabinetry and appliances - move-in ready as-is and configured in a desirable open layout, it is also ready for your personalized upgrades if desired. The king-sized primary bedroom suite features a walk-through dressing area with three large closets and an en-suite bath with a walk-in shower. Lovely hardwood floors, ample closet space, and built-in storage throughout complete this dreamy loft home.
See floor plan and full details here.
All images of Inkwell via Nest Seekers
From the Listing: Welcome to your new home in apartment 5D at the historic Inkwell condominium. This top floor unit offers a beautifully balanced 1,211-square-foot layout with two bedrooms and two baths boasting 13-foot ceilings, equipped with a washer/dryer and black walnut floors throughout. The chef's kitchen is outfitted in all Viking appliances, including a wine refrigerator, farm sink, and island on wheels with soapstone counters. When entering, you are met with massive living and dining areas designed to entertain, cook, host and relax to the highest level of quality. The windows are equipped with blackout shades and the closet spaces are all custom outfitted with amazing taste. The living space is headed by a bespoke marble-clad Town & Country luxury fireplace. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of The New York Dock Building via Douglas Elliman
From the Listing: Residence 4B1 is a 2,753-square-foot three-bedroom and three-and-a-half-bathroom floor-through home with 270 square feet of private outdoor space, offering both western and eastern exposures, offering an ultra-spacious, versatile layout and featuring postcard-perfect views of the Statue of Liberty, Manhattan skyline and downtown Brooklyn along with sweeping harbor vistas. Sponsor includes 1 outdoor parking spot and 1 storage cage on all full asking contracts signed by October 30, 2021. See floor plan and full details here.
150 Thompson Street via Brown Harris Stevens
From the Listing: Welcome home to this beautiful and pristine Soho loft on the corner of West Broadway and Houston. In the heart of downtown and minutes from everything, apartment 2N at 478 West Broadway has been completely gut renovated and redesigned by Damerow Design with not one detail overlooked or expense spared. Key features include flexible floor plan, expansive living area, 12-foot ceilings with original ribcage beams, original fluted cast-iron columns and exposed piping, dark hardwood floors, custom dimmable lighting, and oversized City Quiet windows. The elevated eat-in kitchen is outfitted with a large Caesarstone center island, silestone countertops, custom cabinetry, and luxury appliance package. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 79 White Street via Brown Harris Stevens
From the Listing: Measuring 1,913 sprawling square feet, this floor-through loft is located in an elevator-serviced boutique condominium on a quiet residential side street just south of SoHo! It boasts magnificent 13-foot ceilings, striking double-height arched windows, central air conditioning, in-unit washer/dryer, original exposed brick walls, original cast iron beams and columns, strip hardwood floors, and surround sound! Currently configured as a 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath residence, the half bathroom can easily be expanded to a full (see proposed alternate floor plan). The home's sun-filled 23' x 19' living room is truly grand and immensely versatile! Any home chef or entertainer will appreciate the large dining island and all stainless steel appliances including a vented Viking range, wine cooler, garbage disposal, and dishwasher! See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 57 Laight Street via Corcoran
From the Listing: Rare opportunity to own an exceptional floor-through loft in a classic prewar co-op building on one of the most desirable landmarked cobblestone streets in prime Tribeca. This two-bedroom, two-bathroom, full-floor apartment has a large, flexible footprint which includes an open kitchen, den, and home office. Upon entering this generous space through your key locked elevator, you'll be greeted by high-ceilings and 15 oversized windows, pouring vibrant light into every room from it's northern and eastern exposures. Perfectly designed for entertaining, the gorgeous chef's kitchen features a huge island, high-end, stainless steel appliances (Sub-Zero fridge with vented range), custom cabinetry, and plenty of pantry space. Additional amenities include an in-home laundry room as well as spacious walk-in closet and abundant, built-in storage. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 131 Fifth Avenue via Douglas Elliman
From the Listing: With its soaring ceilings and oversized windows overlooking Fifth Avenue, Residence 602 is a quintessential loft in the heart of Flatiron. Upon entry into the home through the foyer, the substantial great room offers open living/dining spaces and provides flexibility depending on your needs. Six oversized windows facing West onto Fifth Avenue flood the living space with light throughout the day. Built-in bookshelves, as well as a dedicated bar with a wine refrigerator complement the living space. The open kitchen features an abundance of cabinet and counter space for all your culinary needs. Features include marble countertops, double door refrigerator by Sub-Zero, dishwasher by Bosch and a four burner range. The primary bedroom can accommodate a king sized bed, and offers an abundance of built in storage. A full tile shower and walk-in closet can be found in the primary bathroom. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 16 Greene Street via Compass
Would you like to tour any of these properties?
Just complete the info below.
Or call us at (212) 755-5544
From the Listing: Location, history and modern sensibilities come together in this fully gut renovated loft in the heart of Soho. The unit has original wooden beamed ceilings and oversized windows that allow for an airy feel and lots of natural light. The original details paired with an exquisite renovation give this floor-through unit it's unique character and charm. The keyed elevator opens into your open living/dining area with exposed brick, hardwood floors throughout and over 11' ceilings. The renovated, elegant kitchen offers ample custom cabinet and counter space and is equipped with top-of-the-line appliances. The generously sized primary bedroom includes a large custom walk-in closet, while the primary bathroom has a large shower stall, as well as the original wood beam ceilings. The secondary bathroom equipped with a clawfoot tub is clad in black marble and unlacquered brass accents that give it a straight-out-of-a-magazine look. Private storage included. See floor plan and full details here.
84 Thomas Street via Keller Williams
From the Listing: Imagine your own private entrance on the coveted Thomas Street in beautiful Tribeca where you can make this stunning artist's loft your new dream home! This first floor duplex is a half flight up, and the lower level even has windows! Situated in the heart of Tribeca is this stunning approximately 2,800-square-foot apartment with an additional approximately 1,800-square-foot basement artist's loft with 13-foot ceilings upstairs, 9-foot downstairs. The downstairs space is perfect for storage, offices, bedrooms, or whatever your heart desires. Current owners had plans to open the back of the second floor to create over 20-foot ceilings in the rear. Utilize the private loading dock that leads directly into the unit with your own private entrance. The downstairs floor has two rear windows with a second separate egress in the back of the building. See floor plan and full details here.
The Story House via Sotheby's International Realty
From the Listing: This extraordinary sun-drenched prewar loft with massive private rooftop terrace features soaring ceilings, a gas burning fireplace, three exposures - north, west and south - and oversized gallery walls. The keyed lock elevator opens into a sprawling, light-filled 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home that is spread over almost 2,200 square feet. You will also revel in an enormous 313-square-foot private rooftop terrace - dine alfresco in the heart of Flatiron whilst enjoying views of the city and watch the sunset. The contemporary gas fireplace serves as the centerpiece of the expansive living room that measures approx. 26' x 22'. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of The Lispenard via Douglas Elliman
From the Listing: Reimagined by renowned architect Sergio Mercado, this stunning 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath loft with 13' ceilings and spectacular 9' windows has been renovated with meticulous attention to detail using the finest of materials. Combining prewar elegance and modern luxury, a private keyed elevator affords direct access into this magnificent home. The expansive living/dining room with towering ceilings, a custom 13' ebonized steel wood-burning fireplace & mantel and approximately 150 square feet of window overlooking Lispenard Street is designed for entertaining. The stunning open kitchen has been appointed with hand-built custom hardwood cabinetry, a large center island, anthracite granite schist countertops and top-of-the-line appliances. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 129 Lafayette Street via Douglas Elliman
From the Listing: This stunning, modern designer loft, located at the vibrant frontier of SoHo, Nolita, Little Italy and Chinatown, features three bedrooms and three completely updated baths throughout 2,300 square feet of living space. 12-foot ceilings and expansive two-paned windows welcome in light, while simultaneously blocking out noise from the street. The gracious and open living/dining room blend seamlessly with a top-of-the-line, eco-designed Valcucine kitchen with brand new waterfall counter. The primary bedroom features a large walk-in closet and an ensuite bath with floor to ceiling marble tile. A laundry room and pantry complete this open yet functional space. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 182 Lafayette Street via Compass
From the Listing: Chic and sophisticated, 2,500-square-foot, floor-through pre-war loft that benefits from three exposures, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a home office located at the crossroads of Soho and Nolita, two of the most vibrant and sought after neighborhoods in New York City. Enter through a key locked elevator to a foyer and impressive great room featuring authentic pre-war details including exposed brick wall, 11.5-foot ceilings, and 4 enormous east facing arched windows. The large open kitchen has stainless steel appliances, a stove with an exterior venting hood, custom cabinetry, and quartz countertops and backsplash. Across from the kitchen is a small bonus room that offers flexibility to be utilized as an additional home office, workout area, or den/playroom. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of River Lofts via Compass
From the Listing: Enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets from this stunning condo loft in prime Tribeca. This elegant home features direct Hudson River views from the western facing living room, and wide open-city views from eastern facing bedrooms. Originally configured as a 3-bedroom, this home has been transformed by the current owner - supermodel and entrepreneur, Karolina Kurkova, into an elegant 2-bedroom, with a separate dressing room/home office. Enter this home into an exquisite gallery - perfect for showcasing artwork. See floor plan and full details here.
From the Listing: Elegant full floor four-bedroom NoMad loft with doorman, windowed den, separate windowed library/office, four exposures, central-air conditioning, eat-in kitchen, three full bathrooms, private laundry. Enter from one of two key-locked elevators onto a beautiful private landing and into an enormous corner living room with open views of the Empire State Building and Marble Collegiate Church. Wonderful proportions are waiting for you at every turn including the oversized dining area, which easily accommodates dinner for twelve. A gorgeous eat-in kitchen is larger than those in some suburban homes, with a generous center island and stainless steel appliances. On the southern end of the floor is your primary suite with endless storage including an enormous walk-in closet with room for every season. /em> See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 31 Washington Street via Brown Harris Stevens
From the Listing: Residence 15 is an enormous, top floor, true 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom loft in an historic former iron works factory. It radiates an authenticity that cannot be recreated in newer builds. Enter the apartment and a true great room beckons. Nearly 60 feet of entertaining space that includes an open chef's kitchen and space for multiple seating areas. Light streams into this loft through 25 windows and 4 exposures. All enhanced by 3 skylights and soaring ceiling heights that graduate from 11-15 feet. Newly finished wood floors, painted white brick, exposed pipes, thoughtfully placed industrial pendant lights and wood planked ceilings all add rich texture. The modern chef's kitchen features Henrybuilt cabinetry, a Sub-Zero refrigerator and a Miele appliance package that includes a 6-burner gas range with a vented hood, oven and dishwasher. It is all enveloped by an abundance of black granite counter space and a raised Carrera marble bar. Everything you need to entertain in grand fashion is here. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 110 West 25th Street via Douglas Elliman
From the Listing: If privacy and fresh air are what you seek, then this prewar penthouse loft is your answer. Enter your new home through a key locked elevator that opens directly into the apartment which boasts 11-foot beamed ceilings with gleaming solid oak plank hardwood floors throughout. Walls of windows on three sides allow light and air to flow throughout. You can entertain in your grand room with a meal you prepared in your open concept chefs kitchen. There is an abundance of space for a formal dining area. After dinner take your guests back to your den and enjoy conversation in front of your gas fireplace. On a nice day or evening sit atop the city and gaze out at the sunset on your 1,500-square-foot private roof deck. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 16 Crosby Street via Compass
From the Listing: Authentic loft undertook a gut renovation nine years ago and has been featured in many architectural and design magazines including Elle Decor. The home is outfitted in chic interior fixtures including brand new stunning lighting fixtures and chandeliers from Ochre on Broome Street, maintaining a wonderful mix of classic industrial and modern design. Oversized windows out triple exposures invite lovely natural light into each room, all day and showcase the neighborhood's stunning architecture and views. The primary bedroom suite is peacefully nestled in the back of the home, offering a huge custom-outfitted walk-in closet and fabulous spa bath with dual sinks, a vintage linen cupboard from Les Puces de Paris, soothing freestanding tub plus separate slate rain shower. At the far end of the loft, the kitchen opens gracefully to the exquisite entertaining and living area brightened by a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 682 Broadway via Douglas Elliman
From the Listing: This expansive full-floor loft on a prized Noho corner boasts stunning wide-open living space wrapped in oversized windows (25 to be exact!) lining 4 exposures, affording incredible sunlight all and stretching views of the city. Accessed by a private keyed elevator that spills directly into the apartment, gracious interiors exude elegance with soaring 11-foot barrel vaulted ceilings, gorgeous brand new white oak floors, chic industrial elements and refined modern finishes throughout. Live in comfort and entertain in style in the sprawling great room with a corner living are and sweeping open spaces for dining and culinary creation. The chef's kitchen is well appointed with sleek white cabinetry, countertops and island, along with premium stainless steel appliances. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 620 Broadway via Brown Harris Stevens
From the Listing: Once in a while, an authentic loft with terraces comes to the market. 620 Broadway PH6F presents this rare opportunity to purchase a massive and authentic NoHo loft with soaring ceilings and three lush outdoor terraces. This top floor three level loft has seventeen foot ceilings, lovely views of the Beaux Arts architecture of NoHo, and three gorgeous planted terraces. The main level has a sprawling live/work studio with a massive skylight, full bath and full laundry. In addition there is another full bath on this level, and a studio sink. Beyond this skylit studio, a library with floor to ceiling custom bookshelves leads to the double height living room with arched windows, a wood-burning fireplace, a recently renovated kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, and massive entertaining space.
See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 27 Great Jones Street via Corcoran
From the Listing: With over 4,500 square feet between interior and exterior spaces, seeing is believing for this one-of-a-kind Penthouse condo on coveted Great Jones Street in prime NoHo. Accessed via direct elevator, this authentic loft features 3,036 interior square feet, 3 terraces (totaling over 1,500 square feet), double-height ceilings, exposed beams, and a rare, wood-burning fireplace. The main level showcases 10 oversized windows, bringing in light from 3 exposures—north, south, and east—to fill the loft with abundant light throughout the day. The windowed kitchen is elegant yet functional, with walnut cabinetry and top-of-the-line appliances. The generous dining area below the skylight can easily accommodate dinner for 10+. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of The New Museum Building via Brown Harris Stevens
From the Listing: From the moment you enter into this massive spectacular triple-mint loft you are presented into a sensational scaled living space. The elevator opens directly into this 3-bedroom, 3 1/2-bath loft that spans the full width of the building with 6 enormous windows, wonderful eastern light and 2 windows facing north. There is an enormous living room, dining room, gorgeous gourmet chef's kitchen, beautiful maple finishes that are evident throughout, a large wood-burning fireplace with a custom marble mantle, 11.2-foot ceilings, and ample room for several seating areas. The living room, dining room and kitchen flows seamlessly into a centrally-located media room which is a perfect place to entertain or relax. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 534 LaGuardia Place via Christie's International Real Estate
From the Listing: Prepare yourself for perfection with this impeccable, and architecturally renovated, SoHo-Greenwich Village loft featuring 5 bedrooms, and 4 full and 2 half baths. Spread over a 5,000 square foot footprint with 60 linear feet of frontage over LaGuardia Place, this impressive full floor simplex features a keyed-locked elevator which unfolds into a 43' x 25' great room with oversized, picturesque windows framing tree top views to the east. With 12' high ceilings and perfectly symmetrical proportions throughout, including an iconic chef's kitchen with a state of the art classic La Cornu "cobalt blue" Chef's kitchen, Viking refrigerator, custom white cabinetry and white Carrera marble counters. The wide open dining and double living rooms have warm oak wood floors, architectural lighting, original columns and 5 zone central air conditioning. This is a truly complete home, and perfect for a townhouse buyer who prefers the convenience of horizontal living. See floor plan and full details here.
All images of 62 Wooster Street via Compass
From the Listing: Loft 4 is one of just two full-floor residences consisting of soaring 12'10 ceilings, 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms spread over 5,874 square feet with four exposures that provide historic SoHo views and fill the loft with light. This loft offers a beautiful division of public and private quarters with each room offering grand scale. Six enormous 8 5 south-facing living room windows spanning 47 feet, define the dramatic Great Room. With its gallery-like detailing, exposed brick walls and wood joists, hand-finished 12" wide white oak plank floors these natural, warm finishes will remain timeless and age gracefully. The HenryBuilt kitchen, is a real working kitchen. Designed to be a part of the home yet not dominate the overall atheistic of the space. American walnut cabinetry punctuated by Nanz hardware, slabs of Calcutta marble and St. Germain Stone and featuring the best appliances from Gaggenau and Viking, this extraordinary chef's kitchen is functional and refined in design. See floor plan and full details here.
Would you like to tour any of these properties?
Just complete the info below.
Or call us at (212) 755-5544
Would you like to tour any of these properties?
6sqft delivers the latest on real estate, architecture, and design, straight from New York City.
