Space, freedom, rebellious spirit - that's whatis associated with one of the most popular styles of modern times. Good news: you can create a loft interior even in a small standard apartment. Several tricks will help you with this, which we will tell you about in this article
Just 5-7 years ago, loft was perceivedas something unsuitable for the life of our average person, since many found it difficult to discern the beauty in the bare, exposed brickwork or wiring. However, now the situation has changed dramatically: every day more and more people are drawn to decorating their own interior in an industrial style. But few people know which elements are best used to save space in a modest-sized space and so that the loft does not lose its industrial aesthetics. Our article and the opinion of a practicing designer will help you understand all the subtleties.
Alena Timofeeva, designer:— The loft style has come to Russia quite recently and is only just gaining momentum. Everyone knows that it originated in America, during the Great Depression, when inexpensive rental space from ruined factories and plants was being developed. Ideally, a loft-style interior requires an original space, but you can make a cool imitation even in a small apartment. This style has a lot of advantages: it is very decorative, allows you to use existing furniture and all sorts of tricks to save space. And if you get tired of the loft style, you can always supplement it without resorting to large expenses. Glass partitions
If we talk about real factory lofts, thenthey imply a single, undivided space in which every corner is visible. However, only a few will be truly comfortable in such a “naked” environment. Of course, you can fence yourself off, but, as we know, blank walls are not the most advantageous solution for a loft, since they contradict its very philosophy.
A compromise option in this case could befloor-to-ceiling glass partitions, which are also excellent “allies” in the fight against the problem of small spaces. They not only create boundaries and let in natural light, but also visually expand the room, while maintaining its airiness. Deliberately severe examples with a black metal frame look especially impressive. And glass blocks can be a very good alternative to glass partitions.
Open wardrobe
There is not enough space for a dressing room orAre massive wardrobes cramping an already small space? Opt for an open wardrobe! It doesn’t matter whether it’s a freestanding stand on rollers, metal rods attached to the ceiling or wall, or a complex storage system with many shelves, hangers, and drawers. In any case, an open wardrobe will perfectly emphasize the loft style and at the same time free up space.
Barn doors
Another characteristic detail of traditional loftsare sliding barn doors, which look incredibly expressive and create the atmosphere of an old industrial space. But the main thing is that they look great in a small living space, because unlike their swinging counterparts, barn doors save valuable square meters. In fact, finding a good loft-style barn door in Russia that will not only delight with its appearance, but also last for many years is not so easy. So far, production is at a very rudimentary level, and an order from the States or Europe will cost a pretty penny. But do not despair, because gradually workshops are starting to appear across the vast expanses of our country that are engaged in the production of barn doors. Vladislav Rudnitsky and Alexander Malakhov, Doors Brothers Manufactory: - In the workshop, we create each door by hand, although this does not allow us to make hundreds of them at a time. But in handwork there is always a piece of the master’s soul, and you will definitely not find another door like this anywhere else, which is also a big exclusive plus!
Barn door DOORS BROTHERS MANUFACTORY
Barn door DOORS BROTHERS MANUFACTORY
Barn door DOORS BROTHERS MANUFACTORY
Barn door DOORS BROTHERS MANUFACTORY
Barn door DOORS BROTHERS MANUFACTORYAlena Timofeeva, designer: — Barn doors, simply old or outlived their usefulness only at first glance, are now gaining great popularity and a new format. With the help of a carpentry workshop, they are converted into sliding ones. It turns out inexpensive and stylish. Vintage mirror
Using reflective surfaces forvisual expansion of small spaces is a rather hackneyed trick, but it does not stop being incredibly effective. Vintage mirrors of various shapes and sizes, “dug up” at flea markets or antique shops, are ideal for a loft. Take a closer look at large floor models, dressing mirrors with retro bulbs, as well as those with patina, in an aged wooden frame or with metal inserts. Moreover, this can be either a single mirror or a whole composition that creates an interesting play of reflections.
Multifunctional items
It doesn’t matter if it’s a loft or an apartment in any other style,Multifunctional items are indispensable helpers for anyone who is limited in square meters. Therefore, be sure to use such options in your home. A bed with hidden compartments, an ottoman with a folding lid, transformable workstations - all this is just the tip of the "multifunctional" iceberg.
How about a vintage chest that sticks outnot only a bright loft element and storage space, but also, for example, a coffee table, footstool or bedside table in the bedroom? It all depends on your imagination.
"Cunning" home office
Don't know where to place your work area?Get rid of the old boring one and modify it into a full-fledged workspace! Not only will you wonderfully settle in a well-lit place, but you will also be able to get rid of the now unnecessary table and use the freed up space for other purposes. By the way, a few compact shelves next to the window and a couple of drawers under the table-windowsill will definitely not be superfluous. And in order not to overheat from work in the literal sense, it is advisable to install a temperature regulator on the battery.
The editors would like to thank Alexander and Vladislav Rudnitsky from the Doors Brothers Manufactory for their assistance in preparing this article.
