Waterfront location in Bathurst Quay/Fort York includes full amenities (gym, 24-hour concierge, rooftop terrace) plus quick access to Billy Bishop Airport and downtown Toronto.

Introduction to Tip Top Lofts

Tip Top Lofts stands as one of Toronto’s most recognizable loft condos. Originally built in 1929 as the Tip Top Tailors warehouse and office facility, this Toronto clothing retailer headquarters was reborn as residential lofts in the 2000s.

The building sits at 637 Lake Shore Blvd W, directly across from Lake Ontario in the Bathurst Quay/Fort York neighbourhood. A combination of original Art Deco architecture and a contemporary glass addition created 256 unique lofts over 11 storeys.

The famous red neon Tip Top sign—tilted at a jaunty angle atop the building—remains visible from the Gardiner Expressway and waterfront trails. It’s become one of Toronto’s most recognizable landmarks.

Tip Top Lofts at a Glance

Here’s the quick breakdown:

• Address: 637 Lake Shore Boulevard West, Toronto, ON

• Neighbourhood: Bathurst Quay/Fort York, along Lake Shore Boulevard

• Building height: 11 storeys

• Total units: 256 residential lofts

• Unit types: Single-level lofts and two-storey penthouse units

• Ceiling heights: 12-13 ft standard, higher in select hard lofts and penthouses

• Floor plans: Over 50 unique layouts

• Size range: Approximately 400-3,200 sq ft

• Heritage status: Designated heritage structure by the City of Toronto (1972)

• Style: Art Deco landmark with contemporary upper addition

History and Architecture

The building was completed in 1929 as Tip Top Tailors’ head office, warehouse, and manufacturing facility. Designed by Bishop and Miller architects, it features cast architectural ornamentation and colored mosaic bands typical of late-1920s industrial Art Deco.

In 1972, the City of Toronto designated it a heritage structure, preserving the original facade and one of the most impressive Art Deco lobbies in the city. Fun fact: the building’s front entrance was used as the facade of the police department in the US TV series Monk.

Context Developments and Architects Alliance undertook the conversion in the early 2000s. They preserved the lower heritage structure and added six new upper floors set back above the original roofline. Residential completion wrapped around 2005-2006.

The grand lobby restoration included terrazzo floors, decorative plaster details, and Art Deco lighting. The tilted red Tip Top Tailors neon sign—first installed mid-20th century—was refurbished and reinstalled as a central part of the building’s identity.

Hard vs. Soft Lofts at Tip Top

Tip Top Lofts offers both traditional hard lofts (converted industrial space) and soft lofts (purpose-built modern loft-style condos) under one roof.

Hard lofts occupy the lower floors in the original 1929 structure. They retain industrial character: exposed brick walls, concrete mushroom columns, visible ductwork, and original warehouse-style windows. These spaces feel raw and authentic.

Soft lofts sit on the upper six floors. They’re newer construction featuring floor to ceiling windows, contemporary finishes, clean lines, and often large balconies or terraces overlooking Lake Ontario.

Both types share soaring ceilings (12 ft+), open concept layouts, and generous window spans. The difference is aesthetic: character-heavy industrial versus sleek modern.

Penthouse units are mostly bi-level, located in the addition, with dramatic double-height living spaces and terraces facing downtown, the Toronto Islands, or the lake.

Building Amenities and Services

Despite its heritage status, Tip Top Lofts offers a full set of modern condo amenities:

Fitness and wellness: Well-equipped gym, sauna, and whirlpool with dedicated change rooms.

Security and service: 24-hour concierge service, secure fob access, and lobby seating for guest reception.

Social spaces: Party room, meeting room, and a large rooftop terrace with BBQ area overlooking Toronto’s waterfront.

Practical features: Underground parking, visitor parking, and bike storage for cyclists using the Martin Goodman Trail.

Community features include summer barbecues and annual holiday parties to foster resident interaction. The rooftop becomes a gathering spot during warmer months.

Utilities are typically individually metered—electricity through Toronto Hydro, with water and heating/cooling sometimes included in maintenance fees. Confirm the structure on current listings.

Location: Bathurst Quay / Fort York Waterfront

Tip Top Lofts sits where Lake Shore Blvd W meets Bathurst Street, directly opposite waterfront parks and the marina.

Nearby destinations include:

• Exhibition Place and CNE grounds (adjacent)

• Ontario Place and Coronation Park (walking distance)

• Harbourfront Centre (cultural programming and events)

• Martin Goodman Trail (cycling and walking along the waterfront)

• Rogers Centre and Entertainment District (short transit ride)

The location offers easy access to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport via a short walk or shuttle. Transit options include streetcars along Queens Quay West and Lake Shore, plus GO and TTC connections at Exhibition Station.

Retail and restaurants are limited immediately at the building’s doorstep, but Liberty Village and King West are a short streetcar ride away. Weekend bike rides to the Toronto Islands ferry, evening walks to Harbourfront events, and quick downtown commutes define the lifestyle here.

Suites, Floor Plans, and Finishes

Tip Top Lofts offers more than 50 unique floor plans—no cookie-cutter layouts here.

Size breakdown:

• Studios/one-bedrooms: 400-650 sq ft

• One-plus-den/two-bedrooms: 800-1,400 sq ft

• Penthouses: 2,000-3,200+ sq ft

Typical features: High ceilings (12-13 ft), exposed concrete or brick in hard lofts, oversized windows, open-concept living/dining, and mezzanine levels in two-storey units.

Common finishes include hardwood flooring, stone countertops, stainless steel appliances, and spa-style bathrooms. Individual suites vary based on past owner upgrades.

When evaluating floor plans, watch for unique column placements, irregular angles, and window orientations. Heritage lofts require more careful assessment than standard condo layouts.

Maintenance Fees, Utilities, and Building Operations

Monthly maintenance fees at Tip Top Lofts cover building operations, amenities, and some utilities. Fees vary by unit size and level—generally in line with comparable heritage lofts in Fort York.

Fees support restored heritage facade maintenance, the Art Deco lobby, mechanical systems, gym, concierge, and shared spaces. Electricity is typically billed separately through Toronto Hydro.

Compare Tip Top’s fees with other Fort York and downtown loft buildings when evaluating long-term ownership costs.

Market Snapshot: Prices, Inventory, and Investment Potential

The median list price for units at Tip Top Lofts is approximately $974,450, with an average of 44 days on the market.

Typical price ranges:

• Smaller units: Mid-$700,000s to ~$900,000

• Larger two-bedrooms: Above $1M

• Penthouse units: Can surpass $2M depending on views and upgrades

Compared to other Fort York condos, Tip Top commands premium pricing for heritage cachet and waterfront position. Rental demand stays strong—professional athletes, downtown professionals, and frequent flyers using Billy Bishop find the location appealing.

Watch broader factors: waterfront redevelopment plans, transit improvements, and downtown rental trends when assessing long-term value.

Buying or Renting at Tip Top Lofts

Both resale purchases and rent options are regularly available, but inventory can be limited due to the building’s popularity.

For buyers:

• Monitor MLS and loft-focused listings

• Review recent comparable sales within the building

• Request the status certificate for reserve fund and special assessment info

• Evaluate unique floor plan features and view corridors

For renters:

• Sign up for alerts on 637 Lake Shore Blvd W listings

• Confirm parking and locker availability

• Verify pet policies and short-term rental rules

Tour both hard and soft loft examples before deciding. The difference in feel is significant.

Is Tip Top Lofts Right for You?

Tip Top Lofts attracts design-conscious buyers, heritage architecture enthusiasts, waterfront-lifestyle seekers, and frequent travellers using Billy Bishop.

Consider your priorities: Do you prefer industrial character or ultra-modern finishes? Transit-reliant or car-dependent? Lake views or lower price point? Limited immediate retail is a trade-off for the waterfront setting. Event noise from Exhibition Place or the CNE may factor in during peak seasons.

For many buyers, the combination of heritage charm and waterfront lifestyle makes Tip Top Lofts a standout in Toronto’s loft market.

FAQ

Are pets allowed at Tip Top Lofts?

Tip Top Lofts is generally pet-friendly. Many residents own cats and dogs. The condo corporation enforces rules on number, size, and behaviour. Review the building’s declaration or speak with property management to confirm current policies, including any breed or weight restrictions. Nearby waterfront parks and trails make the neighbourhood appealing for dog owners.

What is parking like at 637 Lake Shore Blvd W?

Many units include deeded underground parking, but not all. Some residents purchase or rent parking separately. Visitor parking is available and managed by concierge. Buyers should verify whether a specific listing includes parking and locker. Renters should confirm monthly parking options upfront.

How noisy is it living at Tip Top Lofts?

Units facing Lake Shore or the Gardiner Expressway may experience traffic noise during peak times. Event days at Exhibition Place and the CNE bring additional activity. Interior or south-facing units overlooking the waterfront tend to be quieter. Visit specific units at different times—morning rush, evening, weekend—to gauge sound levels.

Is Tip Top Lofts a good option for remote work?

High ceilings, large windows, and open layouts create solid work-from-home environments. Units with dens or mezzanine levels offer dedicated workspace potential. Check internet options and speeds for individual units. The downtown-adjacent location works well for hybrid workers commuting part-time.

How does Tip Top Lofts compare to newer condos nearby?

Tip Top offers higher ceilings, distinctive heritage character, and industrial features that newer glass towers in Fort York can’t replicate. Newer builds may offer more standardized layouts and sometimes lower operating costs per square foot. Tour both a newer condo and a Tip Top unit to see which style fits your preferences.