A loft in a building is an upper floor or attic often one level with open space. It is usually between the main floor and the roof of the building. Loft spaces are often found in homes, office buildings and commercial establishments.
They are usually divided into smaller areas, but often they have open plans, with no walls designed to let in more natural light and air. Lofts are typically used as additional living or work space, areas for storage and many times they are converted into lofts apartments.
Since space is at a premium in some places, lofts are generally less expensive to maintain. In some cases, lofts are used to house office equipment and materials such as crates and motors. Depending on the building and the regulations surrounding such spaces, lofts may also be used for activities such as clubs, art galleries, restaurateur and recording studios.
What defines a loft?
A loft is an open-plan living space that is usually created in an existing structure, typically an industrial building, by converting the upper floors into residential units. These units typically consist of one to three levels and have higher ceilings than traditional housing.
Lofts often include some of the original architectural elements of the building, such as exposed brick walls, wood beams, and large windows. Lofts can be divided into multiple living areas, configured to fit the specific needs of the resident, and usually feature an open floor plan for plenty of flexibility.
The majority of lofts feature updated, modern finishings and often have balconies to take advantage of city views. Loft-style living is popular in urbanized areas and is often related to community projects like creative revitalization of urban districts.
Why is it called a loft?
The term ‘loft’ is believed to have originated in the mid-17th century, when it was used to describe attics or upper storeys in a building that had been converted into living quarters. It is thought to have originated from the German word ‘Loffte’, meaning air or an open space.
Historically, lofts would have been used as working or storage spaces in factories, warehouses and smaller industrial areas. As industrial usage decreased, lofts became increasingly popular as living spaces due to their large, open spaces.
This is what makes lofts attractive to modern day homeowners—the large, open spaces allow for maximum use of natural light, making them well-suited for living and entertaining. Additionally, lofts often provide additional privacy, as they are usually situated in urban areas and/or on the upper storeys of buildings.
What is loft type house?
A loft type house is a type of dwelling composed of a single large expansive space, typically with a high ceiling, that combines both living and working spaces — often with a focus on renovations and conversions of existing, often industrial spaces.
Common characteristic of a loft type house include open plan layouts, exposed industrial elements like ducts and pipes, and concrete or brick walls. This type of living becomes attractive to those who appreciate an urban lifestyle and enjoy the usability of a large open space.
These homes allow for a lot of room for entertainment purposes, whether that be throwing large dinner parties, hosting friends and family on game nights, or having guests over for game nights. Loft type homes also offer a lot of room for DIY projects and creative spaces, encouraging those to make it their own.
Loft type houses are great for innovation and unlocking inspiration, freeing residents from the confines of traditional structures. Aesthetically, they often have wonderful views due to the high ceilings, great natural lighting, and unique yet industrial design.
In general, loft type houses have become a very popular option among homebuyers today, especially with the growing appreciation of urban lifestyle. People who don’t appreciate the smallness of traditional homes and enjoy a lot of open space and large projects to make it their own, this type of house might be for them.
Offering a lot of flexibility and room for expression, loft type homes attract a wide range of people from those looking for an urban-style living space, to those looking for a place to space out and start their own renovations.
What is difference between loft and attic?
The main difference between a loft and an attic is the accessibility and function of the area. A loft is typically an open, high-ceiling, large space located above the main area of a house or building.
Lofts are typically open and more suitable for use as a living space, such as an apartment, or for recreational purposes, such as a playroom or office. Lofts may even have separate entries that are accessible to the public.
An attic, on the other hand, is typically a smaller, closed off space located in the upper floors of a home or building. Attics are not usually suitable for living in and are primarily used as storage or to access other areas of the home or building, such as the roof.
Attics are usually not accessible to the public and do not have separate entries.
Is a loft two storey?
No, a loft is typically not two storey. A loft is a large, open space usually located on the top floor of a building, often with high ceilings. Due to the space being open, lofts typically offer a relatively large floor area with fewer walls and dividers to separate living areas.
Essentially, a loft is a single room that serves as both living and sleeping space, as opposed to a two storey home which contains multiple rooms on two different levels. This is why lofts are often referred to as “open-plan” or “studio” apartments.
Lofts are popular with those who want to maximize their living space or who want to create a simplistic, trendy atmosphere.
What is considered a loft in a house?
A loft in a house is a large open space, typically located on the upper level of the home, that has been converted into a usable space. Lofts are typically created by removing the walls of an attic or upper level and utilizing the open space.
Depending on the structure of the home and the willingness of the homeowner to put in the effort, lofts can be designed for a variety of purposes like additional living or entertainment space, a home office, or even as a master bedroom.
Homeowners also have the option to enclose the walls of the loft to create separate rooms. Some homes feature a two-floor loft where the stairwell doubles as an entertainment and seating area; this is especially popular for loft apartments.
No matter what purpose the homeowner chooses for their loft, it is certain to add extra character and charm to their home.
What makes a loft a loft?
A loft is generally defined as an open-space apartment or area within a building that utilizes high ceilings and shares space with other floors. These spaces can be found in different types of buildings including commercial and residential.
They often have tall windows, exposed brick or wood surfaces, ductwork and other industrial features. Some lofts have an industrial aesthetic, while others are more modern and clean.
A distinguishing feature of lofts is the lack of interior walls, allowing the space to be separated only by furniture. This creates an open plan living space that can be more easily configured to an individual’s needs.
Oftentimes, other features such as spiral staircases and mezzanines are also included, which allows for additional functions and storage within the single space.
Overall, lofts are widely known for their spaciousness and flexibility. They can be easily customized to meet various demands, from home offices to art galleries and entertainment rooms. With the increasing popularity of lofts, renters and home buyers are able to experience living spaces that are both stylish and functional.
Is loft and attic the same?
No, loft and attic are different spaces. An attic is typically found in the uppermost part of the house below the roof and is used for storage space. It is generally finished and has the same temperature as the rest of the house, even if it is not insulated.
A loft is typically an open space found in the uppermost part of a house, usually above a first floor. It is usually used as an extra bedroom or living area, and often has sloped ceilings and rafters.
They can be heated and insulated, but they don’t always have to be. Depending on the layout of the house and the height of the ceilings, lofts can have either a finished or unfinished look.
What does loft mean in architecture?
In architecture, loft is a term used to describe an open area that has been converted from a large room or space with high ceilings. This type of space typically has a raw industrial aesthetic, and is commonly found in urban areas.
It might include a mix of flat and exposed vertical surfaces with lots of natural light, large floor plans, and an exposed structural element such as piping and support beams. Lofts are often located in older warehouses and factories that have been converted into living and commercial spaces.
Lofts are growing in popularity for individuals and companies alike, who are looking for unique flexible spaces that can be adapted to a variety of different uses. Lofts can be used as offices, galleries, retail areas, storage spaces and even apartments.
Does a loft have doors?
Yes, a loft can have doors. Depending on the type of loft you have, the door choice can vary. If your loft is converted from an attic, then it may have the same door as the entry to your attic. However, if your loft was purpose built, you can choose from a variety of doors such as sliding doors, barn doors, Pivot doors, folding doors, French doors and standard hinged doors.
Each door style will offer a unique aesthetic to the loft, and you should choose the one that works best for the design of your space. In addition, some lofts are open to the rest of the house, so they may not need any doors at all.
Ultimately, no matter the type of loft you have, you have the option to add a door if you’d like.
What are the characteristics of a loft?
Lofts are typically urban living spaces characterized by open floor plans, high ceilings, and exposed columns, pipes, and ductwork. Most lofts also have few, if any, interior walls, affording inhabitants the flexibility to use the space in whatever way best suits their needs.
Loft-style living is also generally characterized by industrial-style windows, materials, and an overall aesthetic.
Loft layouts are also highly versatile, offering inhabitants the ability to use their space as a bedroom, workspace, entertaining area, and more. Many lofts also feature large common areas, such as roof decks, rooftop patios, and balconies, that are perfect for entertaining or just enjoying the city atmosphere.
Some lofts may also feature shared amenities, such as access to a fitness center and laundry facility.
Lofts are often located in historic neighborhoods, often with easy access to public transportation, stores, restaurants, galleries, and more. Living in a loft is perfect for those who appreciate the character of an older neighborhood but also want to enjoy modern amenities and convenience.
How is a loft different from an apartment?
Lofts and apartments are two different types of living spaces, with some similarities and differences between them. Lofts are generally larger and more open than apartments, typically with high ceilings and large windows that provide additional light and more expansive views.
Often located in urban settings, lofts are typically in converted industrial buildings, whereas apartments tend to be more confined in purpose-built high-rises. In large part due to their openness, lofts tend to be more spacious and one-of-a-kind than traditional apartments, with unique touches such as exposed brick and large, custom venting pipes.
Lofts often have unique layouts, with wide-open spaces and multi-functional areas that can serve dual purposes, such as as a media room and guest bedroom. Apartment dwellings, on the other hand, are usually more uniform in structure, with walls and rooms that are separate, smaller and enclosed.
In addition to their physical layout, lofts and apartments come with different benefits and drawbacks for renters. On the plus side, apartments are usually the more affordable option, with rents typically lower than most lofts can command.
Apartments also come with more amenities, like access to a swimming pool, fitness center and other communal gathering areas. Lofts, by contrast, often come with fewer features than apartments, although this can be a plus for some renters who prioritize freedom and open space over having additional amenities.
Nevertheless, lofts may come with other benefits such as an easy commute, since they’re often in urban centers close to public transportation, shops and entertainment venues.
Ultimately, the type of living space that’s right for you depends on your lifestyle and preferences. Lofts and apartments each have unique advantages and disadvantages and choosing the right one will depend on your individual needs and desires.
Is a loft considered a bedroom?
It is possible for a loft to be considered a bedroom, depending on the local building codes in the area. In some areas, lofts may meet the building codes related to bedroom size and windows, allowing them to be considered official bedrooms.
However, in other areas the loft may not meet these standards, in which case it would not be considered an official bedroom. It is important to check with local authorities to see if a loft meets necessary bedroom regulations.