Suites rarely hit the market due to long-term ownership, commanding premium prices versus standard condos for their genuine hard loft status.

Introduction to Candy Factory Lofts

The Candy Factory Lofts at 993 Queen Street W stands as a landmark hard loft conversion in Toronto’s Queen West neighbourhood. The building spans nearly an entire city block with its red-brick façade, arched factory windows, and heritage industrial character that draws architecture fans and loft buyers alike.

Located in Trinity Bellwoods (postal code M6J 1H2), this property sits directly across from Trinity Bellwoods Park, surrounded by independent shops, cafés, and galleries. Unlike soft lofts—new builds mimicking industrial aesthetics—Candy Factory Lofts represents a genuine conversion of 20th-century factory space. The conversion was completed around 1999–2000 by Metrontario, making it one of the earliest major loft conversions in the city.

History of the Candy Factory Lofts

The building is composed of three distinct structures. The east building was constructed in 1907 as a fabric mill, while the west building was built in the 1920s—both featuring masonry walls and post and beam frames. These structures were later assembled into a single manufacturing facility.

From 1963 to 1988, the Ce De Candy Company operated here, producing sweets including Rockets (grape-flavoured chewy candies marketed to avoid trademark issues with Nestlé’s Smarties) and Fizzers, fizzy sweets popular for Halloween. After candy production ended, the factory sat underused until Metrontario transformed it into residential lofts.

The conversion retained the full-block brick shell, wood columns and beams, soaring ceilings, massive warehouse windows, and exposed mechanical elements—all integrated with modern residential systems. This history makes it one of the earliest and best hard loft conversions in Toronto.

Building Overview & Key Facts

Candy Factory Lofts is a 6-storey hard loft building occupying almost the entire block on the north side of Queen Street West between Shaw Street and Crawford Street.

Essential data:

• Total area: 250,000 square feet converted into 121 condominium loft units

• Number of units: 121 residential suites

• Completed: July 2000 (registration)

• Developer: Metrontario Group

• Size range: 857 sq. ft. to over 3,500 sq. ft. for two-level penthouse suites

• Most common layouts: 1,000 to 1,600 square feet

• Ceiling heights: Approximately 12.5 feet on original factory levels, higher in penthouse configurations

The exterior impresses with heritage industrial brickwork, arched window bays, subtle signage, and street-level retail fronting Queen Street West.

Loft Features & Layouts

Step inside a typical Candy Factory loft and the authentic industrial character becomes immediately apparent. Open-concept layouts showcase exposed brick walls, massive sandblasted wood beams, original plank hardwood floors, and the spectacular 12.5-foot ceilings that highlight original wood beams and ceilings throughout.

Units are predominantly one- and two-bedroom lofts, with larger multi-level suites and dramatic penthouses featuring interior mezzanines. Common interior characteristics include:

• Oversized factory-style windows flooding space with natural light

• Exposed ductwork and mechanical elements

• Gas fireplaces in many suites

• Updated open-concept kitchens with islands

• Flexible living areas suitable for art studios, home offices, or work spaces

Penthouse-level homes remain particularly sought after for private rooftop terraces, city skyline views, and direct sightlines over Trinity Bellwoods Park. Layouts tend to be wider and shallower than modern condos, often spanning from Queen Street exposure to the rear courtyard.

Amenities & Building Services

The building balances authentic industrial character with modern condo-style amenities:

• 24-hour concierge service and secure lobby entry providing controlled access

• Fitness room/gym suited for daily workouts rather than resort-style facilities

• Party room/meeting room for resident events, private gatherings, or co-working

• Guest suite available for overnight visitors—valuable given limited nearby hotels

• Visitor parking on-site (rare for Queen West) plus deeded underground parking and lockers for many owners

Maintenance fees cover these common elements plus standard utilities as defined in the declaration. The community consists of a mix of design enthusiasts, professionals, and long-term residents who appreciate quality heritage living.

Location: Queen West & Trinity Bellwoods

Queen Street West delivers one of Toronto’s most vibrant, walkable streetscapes. Cafés, independent boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and nightlife steps from your home. The area has a Walk Score of 98 and was named one of the “coolest neighborhoods in the world” by Vogue.

Trinity Bellwoods Park sits directly across the street. Residents enjoy year-round dog walking, picnics, tennis, skating, and community events within easy walking distance.

Transit and accessibility:

• 501 Queen streetcar running directly in front with connections downtown and to Parkdale

• Easy cycling access to Ossington Avenue, the waterfront, and Niagara neighbourhood

• Nearby grocery shops, pharmacies, fitness studios, and dining options

The neighbourhood has evolved from its industrial and working-class roots into a design-forward creative area that still retains historic fabric.

Market Values & Availability

Due to the rarity of listings at the Candy Factory Lofts, market demand for these units is extremely high. Only a handful of suites appear annually, making turnover rare and competitive. Long-term ownership dominates.

Prices generally trend higher than standard condos in the same area. Factors influencing price include:

• Floor level and exposure (Queen Street vs. park side)

• Presence of terraces or outdoor space

• Degree of renovation and updated finishes

• Whether the unit includes parking

Historical sales data shows strong value retention and steady appreciation, particularly for well-finished larger units and unique penthouses. Rentals, when available, start around $4,750 monthly for furnished examples.

Prospective buyers should set up alerts and be prepared to act within days when distinctive units hit sale listings. For updated pricing and candy factory lofts listings, check current Toronto MLS data or contact a real estate agent specializing in downtown loft properties through Wallace Taylor Realty Inc or similar firms focused on this market.

Who Candy Factory Lofts Is Best For

These factory lofts attract creative professionals, entrepreneurs, and design-conscious buyers who love authentic character over cookie-cutter towers. The property suits those who appreciate open-plan living, exposed brick, and the ambient energy of Queen Street West.

Larger lofts and penthouses appeal to buyers who might otherwise consider single-family homes but want loft-style living in a walkable neighbourhood. While investor appeal exists, the building leans toward end-users buying for personal use, with strong tenant demand when rentals become available.

If you remember one important detail: this isn’t for those seeking suburban quiet or pool amenities. It’s for people who want to find and purchase something genuinely rare in Toronto real estate.

FAQ

Are Candy Factory Lofts considered a true hard-loft conversion?

Yes. The building repurposes an early-20th-century industrial complex used as a candy factory from 1963–1988. Original brick, beams, and warehouse windows were retained during the conversion, making it one of Toronto’s most authentic hard loft buildings.

Do any Candy Factory units have outdoor space or private terraces?

Not every suite includes outdoor space, but several upper-level and penthouse units feature balconies, Juliet balconies, or expansive private rooftop terraces with city or park views. These homes command significant premiums when they appear on the market.

Is Candy Factory Lofts a good option for families?

The building includes larger two-bedroom and multi-level lofts where some families do live. However, open urban layouts tend to attract singles, couples, and downsizers most strongly. Read the lifestyle fit carefully before committing.

What are monthly condo fees like at Candy Factory Lofts?

Fees reflect the building’s size, amenities, and age—covering concierge, gym, party room, guest suite, and parking areas. Avg fees run approximately $0.51 per square foot for premium units. Review the most recent status certificate for precise current amounts.

How does parking work for residents and visitors?

Many units include deeded parking spaces in the building’s garage. Some smaller suites may be sold without parking. Visitor parking is available on-site but shared and subject to building rights and rules. Guests often use nearby street or Green P options as well.