One of the key benefits to living in a loft is the open concept layout of one-room living. But that’s also a big part of the challenge. Even an open plan still needs to be able to function as a collection of distinct rooms in order to meet the needs and challenges of everyday life. While you may not have an abundance of doors and windows to divide “this” area from “that”, it’s still possible to create a home environment that allows you to experience and enjoy each and every inch of your loft while tailoring different areas to the various functions of everyday life.
Gallery Wall
Don’t be discouraged if you’re on a tight budget for art. You can make your own! For example, all of these images are close-up details of urban graffiti that were snapped on a digital camera (a point and shoot can work wonders). The frames are ready-made and come complete with a mat, so you all you need to do is select your favourite images, blow them up at your local photo shop, and pop them into frames and you’ll have a fabulous gallery wall at a price you can afford!
For best results with a “gallery” style installation, allow a consistent width and height between each image. These have minimum space between so the group reads as a unified whole.
Try laying all the pieces out on the floor to make sure you are happy with the arrangement before you swing the hammer!
Inexpensive Island
As island is a desirable feature in any kitchen, but building additional cabinetry can get pricey. For the most economical way to add extra counter space and some seating to your kitchen, consider ordering a prep table from a restaurant supply company. Made of stainless steel with sturdy wheels, this surface can easily be relocated for entertaining.
Butcher-Block Counter Tops
Since the base can be custom made to whatever size you want, consider the material you are using for the counter. We based our dimensions on the available sizes of in-stock butcher-block counters (an 8’ length costs just under $200!).
Metal Details
When working to embrace authentic loft style, your choice of materials is key. Sleek, simple and hardwearing stainless steel cabinetry doors and gables add that element of loft chic while antiqued brass cabinetry pulls introduce a vintage industrial vibe (and allow you see exactly what’s behind each door thanks to handy labels). Backless metal stools tend to be less expensive that fully upholstered bar stools and continue on the theme of flexibility and industrial styling thanks to chunky wheels.
DIY Backsplash
Your backsplash doesn’t have to be made of tile or stone, so think what you can achieve with a simple DIY solution. I made this backsplash by purchasing 3’ lengths of ¼” poplar wood in varying widths. Each board was painted in latex paint colours that referenced the hues in the main room, then lightly sanded to distress the finish, and treated with a couple of coats of Latex Urethane to give a durable protective finish. A piece of tile trim in aluminum run across the top and holds all of the boards in place while creating a neatly finished edge, and the boards were glued to the wall using construction adhesive. With a little bit of effort, you can create a unique and dramatic backdrop for your cabinetry.
Shelving
Use inexpensive ready-made shelf supports and paint them in the shade of your choice, then create a functional display shelf by topping the brackets with a thick piece of natural wood. (These are from IKEA and cost under $10 each)
Flexible Desk
If you’re renting, and worried about making long-term commitments to furniture, why not take a more flexible approach? A piece of butcher block sitting on top of standard file cabinets sprayed in a funky vivid colour is an easy and inexpensive way to get a big work surface, and the pieces can always be repurposed separately in your next home!
Bold Colour
If you’re nervous about experimenting with bold colour on your walls, just start small. Apply an intense accent hue to a single section of wall while leaving the rest of the room neutral and see how you like it. By using strong colour in small doses the effect will be impactful, not overpowering!
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