“This is a spectacular space!”

Real estate developer Harry Stinson is describing the historic Stinson School and no one could disagree. In fact, those very words are spoken – sometimes even more colourfully – as visitors step into the model suite at the Stinson School, one of 53 unique apartment lofts, each unique, to be created into the castle-like, 1894 former school building that coincidentally bears his name.

“These are not quaint little studio lofts, but spacious, upscale residences, larger in fact than many houses,” advises the developer, noting that the suites range from 1,000 to 3500 square feet. “The basic ‘bones’ of the Stinson School are far superior to any loft conversion I have worked on, or seen. This was a functional, well-maintained building, designed for public use, rather than the usual, derelict industrial warehouse. The kids only left a few months ago.”

Amongst the building’s original features that add such character are the gleaming maple floors, huge windows, 14-foot ceilings and wood wainscoting. New features include gas fireplaces, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, contemporary kitchens, computer wiring, thermopane windows, terraces and private gardens.

“From little kids to 83-year-olds, everyone loves the building,” says Stinson. “They all want to live here, and in fact the cross-section of residents will be quite fascinating.”

Harry Stinson has a long history of restoring and rejuvenating classic buildings. The Candy Factory Lofts is widely considered to have been instrumental in the residential rebirth of downtown Toronto, and 1 King West was publicly voted the most admired residential building in Toronto in 2007.

The developer sees incredible potential in the Stinson School Lofts. While ‘loft-living’ is generally considered a New York concept, Stinson considers this Hamilton development as setting a superior standard. A Stinson School loft combines the spaciousness of very large (class-room size) living rooms, while bedrooms, libraries, workspaces and other personal areas are fully enclosed.

Stinson makes this observation about Hamilton’s housing market; “Hamilton is missing credible options in the upper end, multi-unit condominium product”. While he understands that developers are hesitant that Hamiltonians will pay the price, Stinson believes that locals are actually waiting for a building that is architecturally-exciting, maintenance-free, and well-finished condominium. Stinson Loft suites will be priced from $199,000 to $700,000.

From a real estate investment perspective, the location offers extraordinary opportunity. Convenient to both downtown and the Niagara Escarpment, the Stinson neighbourhood is filled with grand brick homes, with a noticeable wave of renovation underway. Stinson predicts a 50 per cent increase over the next 3 to 4 years, in an area that has “all the elements for a fabulous renaissance”.

On visits to the site, Hamilton Mayor Fred Eisenberger and downtown councilor Bob Bratina expressed their strong enthusiasm for the project.

Although the website (www.stinsonschool.com) provides a tempting taste, the Stinson School must be seen to be fully appreciated. It’s open for viewing seven days a week, or call 289-389-1377.