From Textile Workshop to Design Loft: Industrial Accommodations in the 65 Zone and Barrio Colombia

Available Options

If you're looking for a place with character in Medellín, away from the hustle and bustle of Provenza, the 65 zone and Barrio Colombia have become the refuge for creatives and digital nomads who prefer a loft with history over a generic apartment. The transformation began in the 1980s, when this area was the city's textile heart, full of workshops that made clothes for the entire country. Today, those warehouses with high ceilings and brick walls have become design spaces that retain their factory essence.

This phenomenon is no coincidence: the proximity to the Metro, more accessible prices than in El Poblado, and the unique industrial architecture attracted investors who saw potential in these warehouses. As of September 2026, the offering is already varied, though not as massive as in other cities. That works in your favor: you can still find authentic gems if you know where to look.

Real Lofts You Can Book Today

Here are some verified accommodations that stand out for their industrial style and strategic location between Barrio Colombia and Avenida 65:

• Industrial Loft Nook AC, Café & Near Metro: Located in Prado Centro, this space blends industrial elegance with the historic soul of the neighborhood. It has air conditioning, included specialty coffee, and is just a few blocks from the Prado Metro station. Perfect if you want to be near downtown without sacrificing comfort. Reference price: from $180,000 COP per night.
• Industrial Loft With AC • Modern • Near Downtown: This modern loft in Barrio Colombia offers high-speed Wi-Fi, parking, laundry, and a fully equipped kitchen. Pets are allowed, which is rare in this category. Its strong point is its proximity to downtown and the Barrio Colombia Metro station. Reference price: from $220,000 COP per night.
• Luxury Industrial-Style Loft: In one of the most sought-after areas of Barrio Colombia, this space combines fresh design with open areas. It has premium finishes and a layout designed for long stays. Ideal if you're looking for something more polished without losing the factory character. Reference price: from $280,000 COP per night.
• Independent Lofts in Renovated Buildings: Several buildings on Calle 65 (between Carreras 43 and 48) have converted their upper floors into loft-style apartments. They don't always appear on major platforms; many are rented directly through local managers or expat Facebook groups. It's worth walking the area and asking at building entrances.

Before booking, always ask the host if the loft retains original elements such as wooden beams, exposed brick walls, or metal structures. The best examples keep those pieces and combine them with contemporary furniture. Ask for real photos of the space, not just the catalog ones.

Updated Costs

Prices in this area are considerably lower than in Provenza or Manila, but they have risen with demand. These are reference values as of September 2026:

• Night in a basic loft: $150,000 to $200,000 COP (no breakfast, with equipped kitchen).
• Night in a mid-range loft: $200,000 to $300,000 COP (with air conditioning, fiber Wi-Fi, and coffee amenities).
• Monthly rate for long stays: $3,500,000 to $5,500,000 COP, depending on size and whether utilities are included.
• Security deposit: Many hosts ask for between $200,000 and $500,000 COP, refundable.

Compared to El Poblado, where a similar loft costs between $350,000 and $500,000 COP per night, here you save between 30% and 50%. The trick is to negotiate monthly rates if you plan to stay more than three weeks; hosts often offer discounts of 15% to 25% off-platform.

Estimated Times

Mobility from the 65 zone and Barrio Colombia is one of its biggest attractions. Unlike Provenza, you don't depend on a car to get around.

• To downtown Medellín: 10-15 minutes by Metro (Barrio Colombia or Prado station). By bus, 20 minutes.
• To El Poblado (Provenza, Parque Lleras): 25-30 minutes by Metro to Poblado station, then a walk or taxi. By private car, 20 minutes without traffic.
• To José María Córdova International Airport: 45-60 minutes by taxi or app-based service. By direct bus from downtown, 60-75 minutes.
• To Laureles: 20 minutes by Metro (transfer at San Antonio). By car, 15 minutes.
• To Comuna 13 (San Javier): 30 minutes by Metro with a transfer. It's the easiest route for tourists.

Fun fact: The Barrio Colombia Metro station was one of the first built on Line A in 1995, and it was originally named "Barrio Colombia" after the textile sector that dominated the area. Today, from that same station, you go straight to downtown without transfers.

Comparison: Industrial Loft vs. Modern Apartment in El Poblado

If you're deciding between these two options, the difference goes beyond price:

Space and Layout

An industrial loft gives you ceilings of 4 to 6 meters, open areas, and plenty of natural light. Modern apartments in El Poblado typically have standard 2.5-meter ceilings and more compartmentalized layouts. For those who work from home, the loft wins for its spaciousness and sense of freedom.

Atmosphere and Community

Barrio Colombia still retains a true neighborhood feel: the baker knows you, there are local shops, and life doesn't revolve around tourism. In El Poblado, you'll find more expats, trendy restaurants, and an active social scene, but also more noise and extreme gentrification.

Noise and Tranquility

This is where the industrial loft wins by a landslide. The 65 zone, although it has bars and restaurants, isn't the chaos of Provenza. Many lofts are on quiet residential streets, perfect for focusing or sleeping early.

Connectivity

Here, the modern apartment in El Poblado has an advantage if your social life is there. But if you work remotely, the internet connection is good in both cases. The difference is that, from Barrio Colombia, you can get to downtown in 15 minutes, something unthinkable from Provenza during rush hour.

Nearby Services Guide

The 65 zone and Barrio Colombia aren't the gastronomic desert some believe. There are local options worth trying:

Specialty Coffee Shops

• Café Velvet (near Barrio Colombia station): good for working with a laptop, they have stable Wi-Fi and Colombian-origin coffee. Prices from $8,000 COP for a black coffee.
• Rituales Café (in the 65 zone): quiet atmosphere, ideal for informal meetings. Their almond milk specialties cost around $12,000 COP.

Coworkings

• WeWork El Poblado is 20 minutes away, but in the neighborhood itself, there are more affordable options like Espacio CB (Carrera 45 with Calle 66), which offers daily plans from $25,000 COP with unlimited coffee.
• Several lofts already include a desk and ergonomic chair in the room, designed for the digital nomad. Ask before booking if the workspace is adequate.

Local Restaurants

• La Provincia: homemade Colombian food, the daily menu costs $15,000 COP. It's two blocks from Barrio Colombia station.
• Mercado del Río: although it's more toward El Poblado, it's the place to try gourmet food. By taxi from the 65 zone, it's 15 minutes. Dishes from $25,000 COP.
• Street food stalls on Calle 65: corn arepas, empanadas, and fresh juices for less than $10,000 COP.

Transportation and Mobility

Barrio Colombia's competitive advantage is its access to the Metro. Here's a practical guide:

• Metro: The Barrio Colombia and Prado stations are 5-10 minutes walking from most lofts. Line A takes you to downtown in 3 stations and to El Poblado in 8. The fare costs $3,180 COP (2026 rate).
• Metrocable: From San Antonio station (15 minutes by Metro), you take Line K toward Comuna 13. It's the most economical way to get there,

Practical Tips

The 65 zone and Barrio Colombia not only offer unique accommodations but also a variety of experiences that capture Medellín's creative spirit. Here are some practical tips to make the most of your stay:

Explore the Local Gastronomic Offer

Insider Tip: Don't miss La Pampa, an Argentine grill that has gained popularity for its high-quality meat and cozy atmosphere. Be sure to try their skirt steak; it's a classic of the place that highlights the region's passion for good food.

Visit Cultural Spaces

Insider Tip: Head to Casa Tres Patios, a cultural center that hosts contemporary art exhibitions and creative workshops. It's a meeting point for local artists and a great opportunity to participate in interactive activities.

Discover Urban Art

Insider Tip: Stroll through the streets of Barrio Colombia and discover impressive murals and urban art pieces. Bring your camera, as every corner tells a visual story that reflects the city's transformation.

Local Transportation

Insider Tip: Use the Metrocable system to enjoy panoramic views of the city while getting around. It's a unique experience that connects you with the higher parts of Medellín and is a practical way to move.

Community Interaction

Insider Tip: Participate in community-organized activities, such as design fairs and local producer markets. These events are not only an excellent way to meet residents but also allow you to buy authentic products and support the local economy.

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