A true Denver loft (or "hard" loft) is a conversion of a vintage factory or warehouse, having a harder edge of either concrete construction, or "mill" construction of exposed brick and original wood posts, beams and floors. Ceilings should be over ten feet high at least. This is increasingly very important for loft purchasers, as developers are now building condos with slightly higher ceilings than in the past. It is the height that helps give a loft the feeling of air and space. Larger windows and open concept layouts also help. Ceilings are unfinished and pipes and heating ducts are exposed.

Plenty of Open Space

Do not expect to find a 1,000 square foot loft divided up into two bedrooms and a den. It will much more likely have a kitchen and a bathroom with the rest of the space left as one large open room, which you can work with and use according to your own functions and needs. Some people think a loft means you have a second mezzanine level overlooking the floor below, but this is simply one style.

Soft and True Lofts

Many of the newly constructed lofts (or "soft lofts") are for the most part "Condos With High Ceilings." This is an example of condo developers trying to cash in on the current trend. They are still great units, just not "true" lofts. Residents are lured by the romance of wide-open interiors and spectacular views. While many of these units are in new buildings, the most spectacular lofts are not on the fringes, but in the heart of Denver in salvaged warehouses and factories. With their tall ceilings and dramatic views, these converted lofts epitomize the New Urbanism of the 1990's and beyond.

Lofts are found mostly in the downtown Denver areas. The average price is about $300,000, though they can vary in price from $200,000 - $1.5 million. Use our lofts and condo search above or check out our guide to all the buildings in town.