The Vanguard Lofts

Historical Roots

Vanguard Lofts was developed in a historical building that originally served as the first used car dealership in the state of Hawaii. It is a low-rise concrete condominium with 1, 2, 3, and 4-bedroom units (though there is only one 4-bedroom home). Initially built in 1907, Vanguard Lofts has gone through iterations of redevelopment, with the final state completed in 2009. Today, the building hosts Velocity Automotive Gallery on the ground floor, which showcases luxury vehicles. Although parts of the building are older, the layout has been renovated and updated to create modern, unique homes.

In total, Vanguard Lofts hosts 36 residential units on top of the car dealership. There are 6 stories in all. The community can be characterized as a high-end low-rise building with both modern and industrial aspects. The environment is reminiscent of a classic New York City loft, an element that can be difficult to find in Hawaii! Located in the desirable Kakaako area, it’s no surprise that these homes have become popular.

Modern Units

One of the unique features of Vanguard Lofts is the variety of floor plans available. Sizes range from 1-bedroom to 4-bedrooms, with unique features among each unit, including units with the same number of bedrooms. It is recommended that potential buyers inquire about the specific unit of interest to get the most precise information regarding the floor plan.

Overall, many of the condo units share several overarching features. Many of the units have high ceilings and modern finishes. The industrial-style theme can be found throughout the building and in the individual homes. This includes features such as concrete walls and purposefully exposed piping. Units feature large, urban windows and high ceilings. Original appliances were Thermador professional grade and included double kitchen sinks and gas ranges.

30 out of 36 of the units at Vanguard Lofts come with a private lanai. 18 of the units have decks (and some of the units have both a deck and a lanai). Many of the condos on the top floor have unique spiral staircases that lead up to the roof. Although the complex is not known for having the greatest views in the area, having access to a rooftop deck is a rare feature to find, and the staircases match the industrial vibe of the building. The community is pet-friendly, but all pets must be under 70 pounds to stay in the building.

Unit sizes depend on the particular home layout. The 1-bedroom units have between 827 and 919 square feet of interior living space. Lanai sizes very greatly and range from 45 through 263 square feet, and decks range from 545 through 750 square feet. Whether the unit comes with a lanai, a deck, or both, is dependent upon the unique floor plan.

2-bedroom units vary quite a bit in terms of interior space. They can be as small as 836 square feet and as large as 2,000 square feet. The lanai size range for these homes is almost identical to the range for the 1-bedroom units. Units with decks have a much larger deck space compared to the 1-bedrooms, covering 362 through 1,030 square feet.

Next, we have the 3-bedroom condos. These units cover 1,382 through 2,000 square feet. Lanais range from 121 through 238 square feet, and decks are 875 through 1,831 square feet. There is a single 4-bedroom unit in the complex. This unit includes 2,273 square feet of interior space and has both a lanai (238 square feet) and a deck (1,868 square feet).

As you can see, condominium sizes, including deck and/or lanai sizes, can vary greatly within this complex, so it is important to investigate the particular unit you are interested in purchasing. A benefit to this design is that you end up with a unique living space, rather than a cookie-cutter unit that matches every condo on the hall.

Vanguard Amenities

Vanguard Lofts offers several amenities to its homeowners. One of the main highlights of the complex is the 3^rd floor recreation deck, which includes a gorgeous infinity pool and hot tub. This area hosts comfortable lounge seating and cabanas. There is a gas BBQ area that is perfect for hosting cookouts, with a large dining table available for seating bigger parties.

Security is taken seriously at Vanguard Lofts. Parking is available behind a gated garage. The common areas are activated by electronic key fobs to prevent non-residents from entering in and out of the complex unattended. There is an Enterphone system for buzzing in guests, and residents also have access to common area security cameras from the comfort of their homes.

A Lofty Location

The Vanguard Lofts community is in one of the most desirable areas of Honolulu. Residents are within walking distance of numerous attractions, including the Ward shops, which include unique boutique stores, diverse restaurant choices, and larger chains. Ward Village also includes a huge Kids City Adventure for entertaining the kids on a rainy day.

Since the weather is mild throughout the year, you’ll likely want to spend some time outdoors. Vanguard Lofts is within walking distance of downtown (including the state capital), which is very convenient for walking to work. The community is also near numerous parks, including Victoria Ward Park and Ala Moana Beach Park. Ala Moana is particularly popular, as it covers 100 acres and stretches across the shoreline. There are also public tennis courts and picnic areas available.

Vanguard Lofts is a unique complex for potential buyers who are looking for something different from the typical style of homes in the area. The exposed pipes, industrial windows, and spiral staircases give this building a personality of its own. The style makes residents feel as if they are living in a New York City loft without the harsh weather! Check out Vanguard Lofts if you want to be within walking distance of some of the most highly rated local shopping and dining experiences but also want a unique, individualized floor plan that veers from the cookie cutter plans often seen in condominium buildings.