By JOHN THOMPSON
jthompson@thecitizennews.com

Ten years ago, you would have received a somewhat puzzled look if you told somebody you were moving into a warehouse.

But today, you're trendy and on the cutting edge of a new housing development that started blossoming shortly after the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta.

The conversion of warehouses into lofts has now made its way south of the big city with the development of the Newnan Lofts at 110 Field Street in Newnan.

The 145 units are being carved out of a cotton mill that traces its roots back to 1888. The mill employed hundreds of workers until the 1960s when it was used as a warehouse.

The warehouse was abandoned in 1995 and laid dormant for a number of years until local developers decided to create a unique urban village near Newnan's quaint downtown.

The residential component of the village features lofts from 630 square feet to 1380 square feet. The lofts feature original hardwood floors, high ceilings and exposed beams.

Other amenities include swimming pool, controlled entry, fitness center and a lake view.

All units are pre-wired for high speed Internet access and have oversized windows.

Officials at Newnan Lofts said the units are for rent on, and prices range from $600 a month for the smaller units to $2,000 for the larger spaces.

Interest in the units has been keen and leasing representatives are now leasing for July and August move-ins.

Headley Construction of Newnan is doing the construction on the facility, while Naviar of Macon is developing the center.

The development features three buildings that are earmarked for office, studio and commercial space that range from 1,740 square feet to 14,000 square feet.