North Star Lofts

North Star Lofts For Sale & Lease

^{The Patriarch of the Mill District}

North Star Lofts | Mill District

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Not only is North Star Lofts one of Minneapolis’ most prestigious and sought-after loft conversions, but it also blazed the way for the redevelopment of the historic Mill District. The former woolen mill and blanket manufacturer was completely renovated and transformed into luxury loft condos in 1999 and is widely considered to be patriarch of the neighborhood’s resurgence. The Downtown East building with its iconic rooftop sign maintains its reputation as a standard bearer with 36 showcase residences that blend vintage architectural details with modern designer finishes.

Minneapolis Condo & Loft Guide

North Star Lofts Real Estate Statistics

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Property Types (active listings)

More About North Star Lofts: A Luxurious Landmark in the Mill District

Located at 117 Portland Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55401, North Star Lofts is part of a group of prominent historic residential buildings including Whitney Landmark Residences, Humboldt Lofts, and Washburn Lofts. With its multiple wings and Chaska brick exterior, the structure is further distinguished by a soaring tower topped by the “North Star Blankets” sign. Built in 1864 by WW. Eastman and Paris Gibson, the North Star Woolen Mill became the nation’s largest manufacturer of blankets, yarn, and flannel. After a 1925 expansion and rebrand, the company thrived until relocating to Ohio midcentury. In 1999, the vacant mill underwent a $12M residential conversion, the first in the new Historic Mills District Master Plan.

Today, North Star Lofts features 36 spacious condos across seven levels. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the renovation delivered layouts from one to three bedrooms. Homes combine original brick walls and soaring ceilings with industrial-chic design: exposed ductwork, open floorplans, chef-inspired kitchens with custom cabinetry, stone counters, stainless appliances, and oversized prep/dining islands. Many residences include floating iron stairs to lofted spaces. Penthouses often offer private roof decks and additional entrances.

Each unit is unique—some modern, others more industrial—but all are among the largest in the neighborhood. Most include private outdoor space with skyline or Stone Arch Bridge views. Residents enjoy multiple garage stalls plus guest parking, a secure lobby with historical photos, a community room, a fitness center, and two rooftop decks with grills and lounge seating. The pet-friendly building sits steps from riverwalk trails, Guthrie Theater, Mill City Museum, and top dining options.

Features and Amenities at North Star Lofts

• Authentic original details paired with modern finishes
• Private outdoor balconies or terraces in most units
• Elegant lobby with Mill District historical displays
• Two rooftop decks with grills, lounge seating, and skyline views
• Fitness center with cardio and strength equipment
• Community room with dining tables
• Multiple garage stalls per unit plus guest parking
• Pet-friendly; close to river trails

The Rebirth of the Historic Mill District

North Star Lofts led the residential revival of the Mill District. Once home to flour mills, lumber mills, North Star Blankets, and the Betty Crocker Test Kitchen, the area declined mid-20th century into a landscape of vacant warehouses and parking lots. Today, it thrives with boardwalks along the Mississippi, the Stone Arch Bridge, Guthrie Theater, Mill City Museum, farmers market, Mill Ruins Park, and restaurants like Chloe by Vincent and Farmers Kitchen + Bar.

North Star Lofts HOA Dues Cover:

Air Conditioning, Building Exterior, Cable TV, Controlled Access, Hazard Insurance, Heating, Lawn Care, Miscellaneous Fees, Outside Maintenance, Parking, Professional Management, Sanitation, Security Staff, Security System, Shared Amenities, and Snow Removal.