Are you interested in buying a loft? Many people are intrigued by the large spaces and exposed brick walls, or by the fact that these spaces are common among artistic types. We’ve all seen lofts in movies, and there is simply something about them that makes them cool.
What is a loft apartment?
A loft is a large space with no (or few) interior walls, usually with exposed brick walls, high ceilings and large windows. Lofts tend to be around 1000 to 2000 square feet, which distinguishes them from studios, which tend to be around 600 square feet.
There are three main types of lofts: hard lofts, soft lofts, and apartments with loft spaces. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about lofts to help you make the best decision when it comes time to find and purchase one.
History of loft apartments
The idea of loft apartments started in the 1950 and 60s in New York city when old industrial buildings, warehouses and attic spaces were converted into residential apartments. The movement was started primarily by artists and students looking for affordable housing in the city.
At first, these spaces were deemed unsafe by the fire department and residents were forced to move out. Eventually, lofts came to be considered acceptable housing and since then, the concept of a loft has transformed from “cheap places to live” into “high end housing”.
Characteristics of a Loft Apartment
As mentioned earlier, there are two main types of lofts, and there are also apartments with loft spaces. There are a few differences between these, but in general, lofts have open floor plans, meaning that there are few interior walls.
And because some lofts (hard lofts) are often converted from abandoned or sole warehouses, industrial or commercial spaces, they are large, with high ceilings and tall windows. Because of their size and their often uninsulated windows, lofts can be drafty and they might also be a little noisy.
Also, lofts are often more expensive to heat and cool, meaning that utility bills will be higher than for smaller spaces or traditional houses.
Finally, lofts are almost exclusively in urban areas, so if you are looking for a loft, be prepared to live in a large city!
An apartment with loft space
Some apartments come with a loft space, but it doesn’t mean that they are loft apartments. A loft space is a space created usually above the main living area, which is accessible via stairs or a ladder. This space is often open, without walls on one or more sides, allowing it to overlook the lower level.
Loft spaces are popular in micro apartments and studios, since they create a way to maximize the utility of the space. They can be found in both modern buildings or older constructions.
The difference between a studio and a loft?
Both share the same concept of an open space, but lofts are usually way bigger in square footage (1,000-2,000) than a studio (600 to 800). Lofts boast higher ceilings, larger kitchens, and they are normally more expensive. Studios apartments, on the other hand, have smaller kitchens, and less space between the floor and the ceiling but they ended up being more affordable.
Despite the size and price, both apartment styles share similarities. They are typically composed of two distinct rooms – a bathroom and a living space that includes kitchen, living room, dining space, and sleeping area.
Types of loft
If you are considering a loft to be your new home, you will be happy to know that there are four types of loft : Hard loft, soft loft, live-work loft and loft conversion:
Hard lofts
Also called “industrial lofts”, are those that used to be warehouses and were converted to living spaces. Exposed brick walls, large windows, high ceilings, exposed beams and ductwork, are some of the characteristics of this style of apartment.
Soft lofts
Soft lofts are new constructions designed like hard lofts. Despite having some hard loft features such as high ceilings and large windows, they still lack the raw industrial feel. But they can be found in new condo developments, which opens the possibility to access modern amenities.
Live-work lofts
Live-work lofts are places to reside and work, which are very popular among artists. Remember, rules regarding live-work spaces change according to location, and some states might have a specific list of zoning regulations before using it as a work space.
Loft conversions
Loft conversions are unused or underutilized attics or loft spaces that were transformed into functional rooms. This transformation often occurs in a house where the homeowner is looking to maximize the utility of their existing space. The types of loft conversions vary from traditional hard lofts.
People also ask
What are the pros and cons of living in a loft apartment?
Before making any decisions, you need to make sure that lofts are the right style of home for you. Reviewing your needs and weighing the pros and cons of living in a loft is one of the first steps you should take.
Pros:
A lot of space and natural light are the biggest advantages of living in a loft. You also have the liberty to modify the space in the apartment using your creativity. Lofts are full of personality and it features unique characteristics, besides enjoying prime locations since they are often old, converted warehouses in big cities.
Cons:
With so much space it is difficult to imagine lack of storage, but this is one of the disadvantages of living in a loft. Closets or built-in storage units are rarely in lofts.
Lofts are usually more expensive, being the utility cost or price, and they are often noisier since they usually have wood flooring and thinner walls.
Are loft apartments expensive?
Typically, lofts are more expensive than traditional apartments. The utility costs are usually higher as well. That is because lofts are old buildings or industrial properties converted to livable spaces and consequently they tend to be less energy efficient. But it doesn't mean you can't find a loft that suits your budget. You can count on one of our real estate agents to walk you through the process.
