48 abell street

an original sketch of the John Abell Engine & Machine Works factory from the late 1800's

this past summer my roommate and I were lucky enough to score an amazing pad in the historic 48 abell street live/work studio building. 

the John Abell Engine & Machine Works factory was constructed in 1886 by Mr. Abell himself. the red brick and heavy timber building is almost 100,000 square feet, and since being converted to studio spaces in the late 70's, has housed almost 60 units.

unfortunately the existence of this historic building is threatened by massive development proposals and will most likely be torn down within the next few years to make way for another high density monstrosity. 48 abell street has been standing for over 120 years and I guarantee what ever eyesore they decide to build in its place won't last half that long.

we knew moving in here was risky - we still don't really have any clear idea of when we'll have to leave. but we took the risk because we wanted to be a part of history - a part of something that one day will be a thing of the past.

 there are currently six condo's being built around the building 

home to Aristocrat Lamps and Lighting, a family owned business since the 1960's

the original smoke stack over the boiler room.