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Lofts aren’t simply relegated to industrial areas of major metropolitan cities anymore. Anywhere you turn, from traditional neighborhoods like Marina del Rey in California to cities in the Midwest, lofts are popping up at every corner. Unlike traditional homes, lofts present some very unique design challenges. With little separation, exposed brick, ducting, etc, how do you decorate in a loft?
If you’re a loft dweller, you should approach your next redesign with excitement. Take these challenges and let your imagination run free. A loft allows you to mix and match genres with greater success than a traditional home.
Before anything, determine where your “rooms” or “areas” will be. Decide if you’ll place the living area, next to kitchen, near dining room, etc. After you’ve determined locations, create a game plan. Define your “rooms” as best as possible. The open floor plan of lofts presents benefits and drawbacks. Throw rules out the window in loft design. You aren’t confined by true separation to use your creativity to generate separation. Maybe the back of a strong sofa or bookcase can create the division sometimes necessary.
Maximize what space you do have. High end lofts are usually more expensive than traditional homes, so that means loft owners need to fully utilize living and storage space. The best solution is to implement furniture pieces with storage components. Perhaps a storage ottoman or others. The challenge is to create a homey, inviting space in an often cold loft space.
Pay attention to the materials inside your loft as well. Combining wood, glass, chrome, and stainless steel creates unique looks that blend nicely, especially in industrial themed lofts.
In older, more vintage loft spaces characterized by exposed brick, decorative moldings, and columns, thick outside of contemporary or modern. Incorporate turn of the century antiques and reproductions. Older chandeliers, hand carved chests, and rich upholstery for furniture play up the vintage character of these lofts.
Use your art. Not just one genre, but mix it up. The large windows of lofts provide plenty of light and support to stunning art pieces.
Don’t forget the light. Canister lights, recessed lighting, and track lighting can provide gentle support at night and provides a perfect backdrop to stunning nighttime views.
There is no right or wrong way to design a loft. Don’t think of your first attempt as a conclusion. You’ll constantly be inspired and motivated for change. The Paradigm Gallery design team is here whenever you need assistance when embarking on a new project. Let us know, we’re here.
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