7 Ways to Make the Most of Loft Space

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A loft that uses vertical space effectively
A loft that uses vertical space effectively (Decoist)

Loft living has many advantages but can pose a challenge when decorating and allocating for storage.  It may require creative thinking when it comes to specific layout.  Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your loft space and reap the full rewards of loft living.

Loft space
Loft space (wnetrzaranzaeja.blogspot)
Multi-level loft space
Multi-level loft space (skroutzondeck)
Light-filled loft space
Light-filled loft space (stokeharvester)

Go vertical.  With high ceilings at a premium in loft spaces, you can make the maximum use of space by building tall shelving units.  Use ladders to access upper areas.  Ladders also enhance the decorative effect of shelving.

Bookshelves fill the vertical space in this loft
Bookshelves fill the vertical space in this loft (japanesetrash)
Wall space is utilized with high bookshelves
Wall space is utilized with high bookshelves (art-ekstrax)

Niches and floating wall shelves are a great way to tuck away items or to make creative use from unused wall space.  Use niches or floating wall shelves to display important art pieces.  Install accent lighting to illuminate the display for added drama.

Wall niches create areas for display and storage

Floating shelves create areas for display and storage (ontrus)

Wall niches accent this loft
Wall niches accent this loft (mybutterfly)
Wall niches in the hallway give unused wall space a boost
Wall niches in the hallway give unused wall space a boost (designmag.fr)

Multi-purpose dividers, such as bookcases, can bridge the gap between spaces in a loft.  Place them between the sleeping and living areas or the living and kitchen area.  Corral miscellaneous household items on the shelving into decorative boxes, metal bins or baskets.

Open shelving doubles as room divider
Open shelving doubles as room divider (ilparametro)
Open shelving maintains good flow in this loft space
Open shelving maintains good flow in this loft space (Decoist)

Make use of all space, including stairwells.  The area surrounding stairs is often overlooked when decorating.  This is a space that can benefit from a bit of out-of-the-way storage.  Create space with wall niches or add storage underneath the stairs.

Related:
5 Reasons to Love the Industrial Loft
Shelving niches in the stairwell for storage and display
Shelving niches in the stairwell for storage and display (a1architects.cz)

With the expansive height of most lofts, you can create another level – a loft within a loft.  Use this area for a bedroom, sitting area or library.  Install a floating staircase to reach the upper level, allowing the space to remain open.

Multi-level loft with floating staircase
Multi-level loft with floating staircase (Pinterest)
Unique multi-level loft
Unique multi-level loft (Pinterest)
Space is utilized above the fireplace
Space is utilized above the fireplace (Decoist)
Loft living
Loft living (Decoist)

Expand the living area by opening up to the outdoor space.  If you are fortunate enough to live in a loft that has a balcony or terrace, take advantage of the extra space.  Extend your floorplan and decorating scheme to include the outdoor space.

An outdoor space for loft living
An outdoor space for loft living (homedesigning)
A loft space takes advantage of natural light and outdoor space
A loft space takes advantage of natural light and outdoor space (sadecor.co.za)

Place walls and windows creatively in the loft.  Use windows along with half-walls to create a unique room divider.  Use materials such as brick, stone or wood cladding to enhance walls and give them interest.  Allow space for ledges and openings for additional storage and architectural interest.

Creative use of walls and windows for the interior of this loft
Creative use of walls and windows for the interior of this loft (freshome)
Brick arch accents this loft space
Brick arch accents this loft space (trendier)
Space is divided by a bar in this loft
Space is divided by a bar in this loft (reds-inc)

Living in a loft can be challenging but it is full of possibility.  When you are faced with a wide-open space, create separate areas and manage space wisely.  Make use of storage areas that are hidden beneath the surface and can be realized with a little imagination and planning.  Make the most of your loft space by visualizing, creating and enhancing the functional and architectural elements.

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