The Lofts at International Market Square, 290 Market Street, Minneapolis

null When the old Munsingwear factory was converted into a design center two decades ago, its success in attracting a cosmopolitan range of tenants was considered surprising by many. This was well before the era of local loft conversions, after all, and Glenwood Avenue was out of the way, perceived as a working industrial area. By today, perceptions and values have radically changed, and the notion of living here now seems reasonable, even desirable. The downtown core is closer to International Market Square than are properties in the southwest parts of Loring Park neighborhood. The Farmers' Market is just across the street, under I-94. Walker's Sculpture Garden is a few hundred yards to the south. Lofts are available in a dozen-and-a-half plans, ranging in size from about 900 to more than 2,800 square feet in floor area. These living units are the essence of an idealized loft: pure space, open and light-filled.