Since opening its gleaming doors in 2007, the residential property known as 1352 Lofts has made a habit out of generating headlines. Considering the building’s spacious and lushly appointed residences, gorgeous vistas and best-in-class door service, such attention should come as no surprise.
People have taken notice. Everyone from young professionals to adventure-minded empty nesters have made a new home at 1352 Lofts, each of them eager to make the most of its prime location in one of the city’s most desirable neighborhoods—the culturally vivid and exceptionally diverse Avenue of the Arts District. In fact, “The Lofts,” as the property is known to those close to it, has earned a reputation for being an attractive option for people from all walks of life, of every age and background. This includes members of the LGBT community, who, considering the 2015 Supreme Court ruling that effectively legalized same-sex marriage, now have so many more doors open to them.
“Because there is no discrimination for same-sex marriage, the desire to own real estate together, financially and emotionally, has increased,” explains Gaurav Gambhir, owner of The Condo Shop, which represents a number of desirable properties throughout Philadelphia, including 1352 Lofts. “That gave the push to a lot of same-sex couples to pursue the dream of owning a home together. Prior to the change in equality, life partners were unable to own property in the same manner married couples have been privy to. Now, after the Supreme Court ruling, married same-sex couples have a choice to hold a property as tenancy by the entirety.”
He cites one benefit tied to capital gains. Married couples—regardless of gender—who sell their primary residence can enjoy double the capital gains exemption that an individual can, according to Gambhir. “An individual pays a tax on every dollar of profit over $250,000,” he says. “But married couples pay taxes on every dollar over $500,000.”
The area surrounding The Lofts is rich with cultural and entertainment options, ranging from four-star restaurants to one of the world’s finest theater districts. For members of the LGBT community, the building is also within walking distance of Washington Square West, the neighborhood that includes the area known affectionately as “The Gayborhood.”
“The Lofts is a warm, open building, built in the heart of the City of Brotherly Love,” Gambhir adds. “The Lofts has been lucky to have open-minded, friendly residents. The proximity to the history and culture of the LGBT community is just a block away, welcoming all, with a true sense of belonging and pride.”
Of course, people of every background and lifestyle benefit from living at The Lofts. Just ask Michael Gregor, an agent with The Condo Shop and also a 1352 Lofts resident.
“I think there is a nice community of people here,” Gregor says. “The community is very walkable to various locations in the city, and that’s something that anyone in the city be would interested in.”
Certainly, 1352 Lofts’ central location has been a major selling point for a number of residents. This includes Rupal Kalariya, who has been living in a two-bedroom, 1,400-square-foot space in the 1352 Lofts for nearly two years.
“It’s close to both the Rittenhouse Square and the 13th Street restaurants,” notes Kalariya, who describes the building’s location as “perfect.” “Most everything is an easy walk to get to. And the other side of South Street has some great new restaurants and shopping, too.”
The Lofts’ location and amenities proved so alluring that Kalariya’s sister, upon her recommendation, chose to call the building home.
“She was looking for similar amenities, and after having looked so long myself, I knew The Lofts had everything she wanted for the right price,” Kalariya says. “The homeowner’s association (HOA) fees are reasonable and the location is great. And it makes it easier for our parents to come visit us both.”
Perhaps most important is the safe, welcoming atmosphere The Lofts has cultivated.
“I am so happy with the manager and staff of the building,” Kalariya says. “They respond quickly to any need. During the big snowstorm, my sister’s car got stuck in the alley behind the building and the doorman Walter helped shovel her out! That was way above and beyond and we truly appreciate those incredible gestures. It’s nice to be greeted with a smile and feel like you’re a part of the building family.”
The physical features of the five-floor 1352 Lofts are equally impressive. While many of the building’s residences feature two floors and 20-foot-high ceilings, layouts vary; most include a large kitchen and living space “large enough for a dining table or work area,” says Gregor. Regardless of their size, all 1352 Lofts residences feature luxe amenities including hardwood floors, luxury baths and European-style gourmet kitchens.
In addition, 1352 Lofts offers deeded parking and 24-7 concierge service at the building’s front desk. As an added bonus for fitness-minded individuals, The Lofts has special arrangements with a number of local fitness clubs for residents’ use. Also, the building’s outdoor space represents a notable “plus” for many residents. Although not every unit offers outdoor spaces, the terraces and balcony areas—overlooking South Street and Center City on the north side of the building, and South Philadelphia on the south side—range in size from 115 square feet on the third- and fourth-floor units to 480 square feet on the fifth-floor units.
Although 1352 Lofts offers an array of amenities, Gambhir suggests these are merely the tip of the iceberg in terms of the benefits residents can expect to enjoy.
The building’s 72 residences range in size from 1,150 square feet to 2,400 square feet, and prices vary. Available units come in studio, one- and two-bedroom sizes and feature either one or two full baths or a full bath and a powder room. There is, of course, a penthouse floor, which features all single-level spaces. More than 60 percent of the building’s units are currently occupied, and most residents consider this their primary residence—with very good reason.
The Condo Shop
1425 Locust Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
215-692-6636
www.thecondoshops.com
1352 Lofts
1352 South Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
1352south.com
Photograph courtesy of The Condo Shop
