Marcio Vasconcelos
There are different types of lofts, so a comprehensive guide to loft ideas would be quite long. In this article, we will focus on loft ideas for what are called hard and soft lofts.
Hard lofts are those that are found in previously industrial or commercial spaces, whereas soft lofts are not. Soft lofts are designed in the style of hard lofts, but they are not found in industrial or commercial areas, as traditional lofts are.
Other kinds of lofts ideas would pertain to homes with loft areas. Homes with vaulted or cathedral ceilings, for example, allow for a loft style area in the home and these areas can be anything from bedrooms, to offices, to sitting areas.
In this article we’ll take a look at loft ideas from two angles: interior design elements and functional elements.
What is a loft?
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.
Functional Elements
The Cozy Retreat
If you have a loft area within your home, you can turn it into the perfect place for relaxing, reading, or meditating. All you need to make your loft area more cozy are the following:
Soft Fabrics
Rugs, pillows, and blankets to add warmth and texture.
Seating
Add soft seating options like bean bags or a hammock.
Lighting
Lanterns, dimmable LED lights and soft lighting options in general can create a relaxed atmosphere.
Plants
A little bit of green will bring life into any environment. Consider easy-to-care-for plants in your cozy loft.
The Productive Loft Office
With the home office concept becoming increasingly more popular, a loft can provide the perfect space. To ensure productivity and comfort, keep the following in mind:
Ergonomics
Make sure to have chairs and desks that allow you to comfortably work in a seated or standing position for a long time.
Organization
The space should have shelving and storage so that you can easily keep your workspace tidy and efficient.
Technology
If you’re going to be working, of course you will need all the necessary tech, like a strong Wi-Fi signal, power outlets, and proper lighting.
Inspiration
work in a place that inspires you and keeps you in an upbeat mood. Motivational quotes, family photos, and artwork for the wall spaces are just two ideas.
The Artist's Studio
If you’re a creative type, a loft makes for an incredible art studio. Here are a few things to consider when setting up your space.
Natural Light
Take into consideration the position of the windows when organizing your loft space. This will allow you to take the most advantage of natural lighting.
Storage
Make it easy to find what you need with shelves and racks.
Flooring
Making art can be messy, so you might want to choose easy-to-clean flooring options. Concrete or wood with a protective finish can be ideal choices.
The Entertainment Lounge
Maybe you want to entertain guests with a movie night or game night in your loft. You’ll want a comfortable area designed to accommodate them:
Seating
Make sure to have comfortable seating for everyone. Ideally, there should be space for sitting and for getting in and out of the space.
Technology
An entertainment system with quality images and sounds will make for the best experience. Consider investing in a TV or sound system if you do not already have them.
Bar Area
It never hurts to have a bar! If there is room, set a space, however small, for guests to grab a beer, soda or juice.
Games
Games are always a great way to get guests engaged and having fun. Consider pool, foosball, or board games for your loft.
The Multi-Functional Family Space
Create a multi-use family space out of your loft that is adaptable to the changing needs of your family:
Versatile Furniture
Use multi-purpose furniture, such as futons or ottomans with storage.
Designated Areas
Create designated areas for various activities – a game corner, a reading nook, and a crafts or homework space.
Safety
Especially if you have younger children, ensure the loft is safe. Railings, where appropriate, and soft flooring options are essentials.
Interior Design Elements
Mezzanine style loft
Mezzanine style lofts take advantage of the high ceiling by putting a second floor that shares the first floor ceiling. This creates a spaciousness that common homes can’t match. Mezzanine style loft areas can also be found in houses that have cathedral ceilings.
Ambient loft
Ambient lofts are designed to take advantage of spectacular views. They typically have large windows, sometimes floor to ceiling. In addition to providing impressive views, these windows make for a unique lighting experience throughout the day.
Industrial Loft
Industrial lofts preserve the original warehouse elements of the space, such as exposed pipes, brick and wood elements of the space. They also tend to be spacious and may or may not have a mezzanine style interior.
Artsy loft
The artsy loft is spacious and designed to make working on your artwork as comfortable as possible. You can have spaces designated for specific activities of both work and leisure.
People Also Ask
What is a vaulted two story space?
A vaulted two story space is an area of the home where the first floor and the second floor share the same ceiling. Mezzanine style loft interiors are examples of this.
What is a cathedral ceiling?
A cathedral ceiling is a type of vaulted space, in which the ceiling is arched, peaking in height at the center. The term “cathedral ceiling” comes from the style of ceiling found in real cathedrals (very tall with vaults supporting them).
This differs from a vaulted space, in which the ceiling does not necessarily have to meet at the middle of the ceiling nor does it have to follow the shape of the roof.
