What Is a Loft in a House?

The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto

Lofts are elevated spaces within a home that can serve a multitude of purposes, whether you choose to use one as a bedroom, storage space, or for another activity entirely.

Below, you will find plenty of information regarding where lofts are most commonly found, how they are primarily used, and what differentiates lofts from finished attic spaces.

MEET THE EXPERT

  • Rachael Grochowski is the principal architect and designer at RHG A+D, which is based in Montclair, NJ.
  • Patty Cassidy is the director of interiors at Ike Baker Velten, an architecture and design firm which is based in Oakland, CA.

 

What Is a Loft?

A loft is an elevated area inside of a home that is accessible via a flight of stairs. Lofts will generally overlook a main living area, such as a living room or kitchen, and function as an additional room within a home that can be used for relaxing, working, or sleeping.

Similar to an outdoor balcony’s design, a loft has railings but does not feature four standard plaster walls like a traditional room would.

Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images

 

Where Are Lofts Found?

Lofts are most commonly found in contemporary or industrial-style homes. They are also common in smaller city apartments, given that they allow vertical space to be repurposed into an additional new room even when square footage is limited.

A home’s architectural style will influence a loft’s specific appearance. In industrial-style homes, for example, lofts are usually accessible up a black metal staircase and feature black metal railings. They may be accompanied by exposed brick walls as well as exposed beams or ductwork as well.

lechatnoir / Getty Images

 

What Are Lofts Used For?

Because lofts are located up a flight of stairs and not on the main level of a home, they are often used as offices and lounge spaces. When a loft is used as an office, it’s easy for an adult to be working in this space while still keeping an eye on the family downstairs, explains Rachael Grochowski, principal architect and designer at RHG A+D.

“Lofts are great areas for a library or just an overlook,” she says. Sometimes, lofts that serve as offices are enclosed with glass, Grochowski adds.

A loft can also function as a bedroom. However, given its lack of standard walls, this type of setup is most often the case in a single-occupancy apartment, or one belonging to a couple, in which case privacy is not as much of a concern.

Additionally, there is sometimes an en-suite bathroom in a lofted bedroom, but other times, this is not the case, and the sole bathroom is located downstairs on the main living level.

Some people may simply choose to use a lofted space as storage in lieu of a traditional attic. In this instance, lofts make for easily accessible spaces in which to store items such as off-season clothing, holiday and seasonal decorations, entertaining supplies, crafting gear, and more.

A small loft, such as the one shown here, can even be converted into a walk-in closet and used to house several clothing racks, and shoe holders which will make getting ready for the day more enjoyable.

 

Finished Attic vs. Loft

A finished attic is more secluded than a loft, given that it features standard walls. Attics also maintain a different design aesthetic and are usually more rustic in nature, whereas many lofts lean modern and industrial.

As Patty Cassidy, director of interiors at Ike Baker Velten states, “lofts prioritize open space with an emphasis on aesthetics and functionality.”

Many lofts are furnished with neutral pieces, plenty of plants, and sleek accent pieces. Choose an overall theme or color palette to ensure your loft blends in with the rest of your home.

Since lofts can be seen from the room or rooms below them, this will need to be taken into account during the design process—you will want to select items that appear cohesive with the rest of your space and ensure that the area does not look too cluttered or otherwise visually distracting.

The lack of full walls in a loft means that sound can carry; as a benefit, those upstairs can easily converse with those downstairs in the main living spaces if they wish.

7 Replies to “What Is a Loft in a House?”

  1. This article provides a clear and concise explanation of what a loft is in a house. I appreciate how it distinguishes lofts from traditional rooms and highlights their open, versatile layouts. Learning about the various uses for lofts, from extra living space to home offices or creative studios, has given me a better understanding of how this architectural feature can maximize both space and functionality in a home.

  2. Thank you for clarifying the concept of lofts in houses. The article’s description of lofts as open spaces typically found on upper levels and their potential for customization and multi-functional use is enlightening. Understanding the difference between lofts and traditional rooms helps me appreciate the unique architectural appeal and flexibility that lofts offer. It’s inspiring to see how lofts can be transformed to suit different lifestyles and preferences.

  3. This article on ‘What Is a Loft in a House?’ provides a comprehensive explanation of a popular architectural feature that has gained popularity in modern home design. The detailed description of what constitutes a loft, including its open layout and elevated position within a home, offers clarity for readers unfamiliar with this concept. I appreciate the historical context provided, tracing the origins of lofts from industrial spaces to residential use, which helps readers understand the evolution of this architectural feature. Additionally, the article highlights the versatility of lofts in serving various purposes, from extra living space to home offices or creative studios, making them a valuable addition to any home. Overall, this article serves as an informative guide for anyone interested in learning more about lofts and their potential benefits in residential design.

  4. As someone fascinated by interior design, I found this article on ‘What Is a Loft in a House?’ to be both informative and inspiring. The description of lofts as open, airy spaces with unique architectural characteristics piqued my interest in exploring this design trend further. I appreciate the emphasis on the versatility of lofts, which can be adapted to suit a wide range of functions and lifestyles, from urban apartments to suburban homes. Additionally, the inclusion of tips for maximizing space and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a loft adds practical value for readers considering incorporating this feature into their homes. Overall, this article serves as an excellent introduction to lofts and their potential as a design element that combines functionality with style.

  5. Exploring the concept of lofts in houses opens up exciting possibilities for creative living spaces, offering versatility and character that can enhance the overall appeal of a home.

  6. Understanding the definition of a loft in a house provides valuable insight into architectural design, inspiring homeowners to reimagine their living spaces and make the most of vertical space for functional and stylish living environments.

  7. A loft in a house refers to an open area or space typically located on the upper level, often used for additional living space, storage, or as a bedroom.

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