Franklin Lofts, a two-story condominium complex in Minneapolis' vibrant Whittier neighborhood, offers a unique blend of mid-century architecture and modern urban living. Constructed in 1950, this 54-unit building was originally designed as an Art Moderne office space before being thoughtfully converted into residential lofts in 2004. The transformation preserved many of the building's original industrial elements, creating a distinctive living experience that honors its architectural heritage while catering to contemporary lifestyles. Situated in the heart of the city's cultural corridor, Franklin Lofts provides residents with easy access to an array of dining, entertainment, and recreational options, making it an ideal home for those seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle.
Spacious lofts with industrial flair and modern comforts
Franklin Lofts offers a variety of floor plans to suit different needs and preferences, ranging from cozy studios to expansive two-bedroom units. The studios, measuring approximately 600 square feet, provide an efficient living space with one bathroom. One-bedroom units span from 593 to 981 square feet, also featuring one bathroom, with sale prices ranging from $162,500 to $239,900. For those requiring more space, two-bedroom units offer between 800 and 1,227 square feet, maintaining the one-bathroom layout, and are priced from $217,500 to $228,000.
All units in Franklin Lofts showcase the building's industrial past with striking features such as soaring 13 to 14-foot ceilings, exposed ductwork, and steel beams. Many units boast concrete floors, adding to the loft aesthetic while providing a durable and stylish surface. Large windows are a hallmark of the building, flooding the spaces with natural light and offering views of the downtown skyline or the leafy neighborhood streets.
Kitchens in many units have been updated with modern amenities, including stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and in some cases, spacious islands perfect for casual dining or entertaining. Some units feature open concept layouts, seamlessly blending living, dining, and kitchen areas to create a sense of spaciousness and flexibility.
In-unit laundry is a standard feature across all apartments, adding convenience to daily life. Many units also include walk-in closets, providing ample storage space. The top-floor units offer unique architectural elements, adding character and visual interest to the living spaces.
Monthly HOA fees range from $400 to $900, covering a comprehensive list of services including building maintenance, cable TV, hazard insurance, grounds maintenance, parking, professional management, trash removal, snow removal, water, and access to shared amenities.
Community spaces for relaxation and socializing
Franklin Lofts offers a selection of amenities designed to enhance residents' living experience and foster a sense of community. The centerpiece of these shared spaces is the outdoor courtyard, a verdant oasis in the heart of the city. This beautifully landscaped area features gardens, providing a serene setting for relaxation or casual gatherings. The courtyard is equipped with grills and a spacious patio, perfect for summer cookouts or al fresco dining.
For those who enjoy outdoor living, the building also offers a fenced-in garden patio, providing a more intimate space for residents to enjoy fresh air and greenery. This area serves as an extension of individual living spaces, ideal for container gardening or simply unwinding after a long day.
Security is a priority at Franklin Lofts, with a recently updated system that utilizes smartphone technology. This modern approach to building access ensures residents feel safe and secure while offering the convenience of keyless entry.
The building is pet-friendly, welcoming furry companions and adding to the community's warm and inclusive atmosphere. For cyclists, a bike rack is available, supporting an eco-friendly and active lifestyle.
Storage units are provided, offering extra space for residents to keep seasonal items or bulky possessions out of their living areas. Additionally, the building features both surface and underground heated parking options, a valuable amenity in Minneapolis' cold winters.
These thoughtfully curated amenities reflect Franklin Lofts' commitment to creating a comfortable and convenient living environment that caters to the diverse needs of its residents.
Cultural riches and culinary delights in the heart of Minneapolis
Franklin Lofts is situated in the vibrant Whittier neighborhood, often referred to as "The International Neighborhood" due to its diverse community and rich cultural offerings. The area is perhaps best known for its famous "Eat Street," a stretch of Nicollet Avenue that boasts an impressive array of international cuisines.
Just steps from the building, residents can explore a world of flavors. Quang Restaurant, a family-owned establishment, is renowned for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine, drawing visitors from across the Minneapolis metro area with its delectable pho, banh mi, and bubble tea. For those craving Jamaican flavors, Pimento Jamaican Kitchen & Rum Bar offers mouthwatering jerk chicken and plantains. The eclectic dining scene extends to unique spots like Glam Doll Donuts, where residents can indulge in creative donut flavors in a retro-style setting.
Cultural enrichment is readily available with the Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA) just a short walk away. This world-class museum houses an extensive collection of fine art, hosts rotating exhibits, and even features a mummy, providing endless opportunities for exploration and learning. The nearby Children's Theatre Company, a Tony Award-winning regional theater, offers high-quality performances for young audiences and families.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Washburn Fair Oaks Park is a serene green space within easy walking distance. This park offers smooth walking paths, benches shaded by mature oak trees, and open lawns perfect for picnics or casual games. It's an ideal spot for residents to unwind and enjoy nature without venturing far from home.
Shopping needs are conveniently met with several options in the vicinity. The volunteer-run Good Grocer provides a community-focused grocery shopping experience, while Karmel Mall, the country's first and largest Somali shopping center, offers a unique cultural shopping adventure.
The neighborhood's commitment to community engagement is evident in its numerous events and gatherings. The annual Art in Bloom festival at the MIA, where floral artists interpret works of art, is a particular highlight that draws visitors from across the city.
With its blend of culinary delights, cultural institutions, green spaces, and community spirit, the neighborhood surrounding Franklin Lofts offers a rich and diverse urban experience that complements the building's distinctive character.
Effortless city navigation from a central location
Franklin Lofts' central location in the Whittier neighborhood provides residents with numerous transportation options, making it easy to navigate the city and beyond. The area's high walkability means that many daily errands and activities can be accomplished on foot, promoting a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.
For those relying on public transit, the building is well-served by bus lines. The Nicollet Ave S & Franklin Ave W bus stop is just a short five-minute walk away, less than a quarter mile from Franklin Lofts. This stop connects residents to multiple bus routes, facilitating easy travel throughout Minneapolis.
Cyclists will appreciate the bike-friendly nature of the neighborhood, with bike lanes available on many nearby streets. The building's bike rack provides secure storage for residents' bicycles, encouraging this eco-friendly mode of transportation.
For those needing to travel further afield, the Government Plaza Station, serving the Hiawatha Line light rail, is about a 25-minute walk or a quick 5-minute drive from Franklin Lofts. This connection opens up easy access to downtown Minneapolis, the Mall of America, and even the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.
Speaking of air travel, the Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport is conveniently located about 10 miles from Franklin Lofts, typically a 20-minute drive, making it easy for residents to catch flights for business or leisure.
For car owners, the building offers both surface and underground heated parking options, a valuable amenity especially during Minneapolis winters. Major thoroughfares like Interstate 35W and I-94 are easily accessible, facilitating quick connections to other parts of the Twin Cities metro area.
The combination of walkability, public transit options, bike-friendly infrastructure, and easy car access makes Franklin Lofts an excellent choice for those who value flexibility in their daily commutes and travel plans.
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Quantarium
Current List Price
Sold Price
Area Factors
High Crime
Crime Score®
8/ 10
Very Bikeable
Bike Score®
88/ 100
Walker's Paradise
Walk Score®
92/ 100
Good Transit
Transit Score®
68/ 100
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Powered by CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks. Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Environmental risk data is provided by First Street Foundation® and is designed to approximate risk and not intended to include all possible scenarios.
Parks in this Area
Washburn Fair Oaks Park
4 min walk
Bike Trails
Picnic Area
Trails
Stevens Square Park
4 min walk
Basketball
Bike Trails
Picnic Area
Clinton Field Park
9 min walk
Basketball
Picnic Area
Trails
Peavey Field Park
14 min walk
Basketball
Picnic Area
Trails
Franklin Steele Square
14 min walk
Basketball
Grills
Picnic Area
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
3 min drive
Thomas Lowry Park
3 min drive
Bike Trails
Picnic Area
Trails
Whittier Park
4 min drive
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Picnic Area
Mueller Park
4 min drive
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Bike Trails
Schools
Source:
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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Disclaimer: Please note that this building may not be in these schools' attendance zones.
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