Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Lofts Breathe New Life Into Historic Five Points Building

By Armando Landin     

The historic Five Points neighborhood in Central El Paso has seen a steady resurgence in recent years, and a recently completed renovation project is adding loft apartments to the mix.

Left: Stairs lead to the street level entrance of the Stevens Block 3 Lofts in Central El Paso. Right: A newly renovated loft space still includes historic touches such as exposed brick. (Courtesy Hiett, Pharr & Associates)

Stevens Block 3 Lofts are now open at 801 North Piedras Street on the second level of the historic Stevens Building, built in 1921.

Thirteen lofts are available for rent and range in size from 250 to 400 square feet, offering a mix of modern amenities and vintage touches.

Large windows bright up the kitchen and living area in the Stevens Block 3 Lofts in the Five Points neighborhood in El Paso. (Courtesy Hiett, Pharr & Associates)

Each loft has a unique floor plan and includes a living space, kitchen, bathroom, and closet.

The developer has modernized the spaces while keeping historic touches throughout. While each kitchen is up to date with stainless steel appliances, some walls in the lofts are made of exposed brick while parts of the floor are covered in vintage tile.

Four of the six retail spaces have been leased at the historic Stevens Building in Central El Paso. (Courtesy Hiett, Pharr & Associates)

Wooden floors and large windows are also included in each unit, and bathrooms are fitted with new fixtures and floating vanities. Old touches help make each loft unique. An old fireplace, an antique skylight, steel shelving, are all examples of details that give each small space character.

On the first level, four of the six available storefronts have already been leased and include a yoga studio, a hair salon, an architectural firm, and a bakery that should open soon.

The kitchen of a unit at the Stevens Block 3 Lofts includes stainless steel appliances and vintage tile, located in Central El Paso. (Courtesy Hiett, Pharr & Associates)

According to Jason Hiett, Vice President at Hiett, Pharr & Associates, the response to the project has been great with younger professionals attracted to the "urban feel" of the lofts.

"The Stevens property proves that a smaller historical mix-use property cannot only exist but flourish in many of El Paso’s submarkets," Hiett states.

"I think investors will be seeking out redevelopment projects comparable to the Stevens property in the near future knowing that similar results can be accomplished."

Wooden floors span the living area of one of the Stevens Block 3 Lofts in El Paso, located in the historic Five Points neighborhood. (Courtesy Hiett, Pharr & Associates)

Rent ranges from $635 to $800 and includes water, cable, and internet service. The building is fitted with security cameras with the residential area accessible using a key card. Limited parking is available for $25 a month.

The property brochure adds that nearby retail and restaurants are within a two minute walk, while the Sun Metro Five Point transit terminal is next door.

Those interested in viewing or leasing a loft or retail space can contact Jason Hiett at (915) 760-4533.