ANDRE LOFT LIVING= ALOFT

Picture source: Artek

Popularized in Europe, loft living began in America in New York mid-twentieth century. Lofts have a sophisticated and hip image. The characteristics of loft living include an urban setting, floor-to-ceiling windows, 14-foot or higher ceilings, beams or columns and large open spaces- showcasing modern art, furniture, and design that only a gallery could compare. Andy Warhol and his factory take most credit for popularizing the loft movement. From Andy Warhol's trademark tinfoil Factory of the '60s to Julian Schnabel's extravagant studio in the Village, the loft provides an area defined by the unique individual within its walls.

Picture source:not available

The central discipline of the lofts lies in the handling of space and material elements, the common theme being openness. The lofts reveal a developing modernity - based on a flexible spatial content - conveying and encapsulating the dual sense of both space and materiality, and the presence of fine detail. It is not about fashion, but is instead concerned with a sense of rooted settlement and the restorative values of ordered space and light within the basic structure of a personal retreat. The concepts of lofts are all very different; some are minimalist, others more lavish and sophisticated.

Picture souce:dje

Loft becomes a desirable choice for single urbanites.Warhol’s highly publicized and fantastical lifestyle made the loft desirable to emerging artists and the non-practicing art community alike. Though there is some disagreement over what defines a loft living, their popularity has made it so that loft living has developed into a certain type of lifestyle, such as open spaces, the freedom to renovate, and close proximity to the cultural life of a city.

Tips on Loft decorations (various sources)

The first step in decorating a loft is to determine the function of the space. You've got all that space; now what are you going to do with it? Walk around your space and decide the best areas for working, relaxing and entertaining. Once the functional areas have been mapped out, it's easy to divide the open space into "rooms" through the placement of partitions, large pieces of furniture or area rugs. Who needs walls, anyway?

Picture source: SteelBridge Lofts

Because of the industrial feel of lofts, they are usually decorated in a contemporary style, which is sleek. It incorporates clean lines and smooth surfaces. The contemporary furnishings combine wood, glass, chrome and stainless steel to create a really interesting look.

Picture source: 247.com

Chairs and sofas are usually upholstered in natural fabrics, such as silk, wool, linen or cotton. Leather also is a great choice.

Picture source:The Promenade

A good selection of fabrics for a loft includes textures and weaves in solids, stripes and patterns. The colors are often tone-on-tone and fairly neutral, but animal prints also make a very cool addition to a contemporary space.

Picture Source: Tower Loft

The color palette in a contemporary design is frequently a mix of neutrals. Black, grey, cream, and brown are a few possible choices, but pure white is the standard.

Picture source:DB+P

Don't forget the floor when you're decorating your loft. Area rugs are another way to add color and texture, and they can help to visually define a space.

Picture source: Continental Magazine

The right form of lighting is especially important in a loft. Suspended pendant lamps can be used to provide general lighting. A mix of up and down lighting is a good idea, but you might want to avoid using torchiere lamps if your ceilings are too rough. Canister lights are also very effective in a loft area.

Here are some of my personal favourites shopping sites for loft furnishings:

Ralph Lauren Home (US Furnishings)

Elson and company (Tibetan carpets and dhurries)

Moroso (Italian Furnishings)

Molteni & C (Italian Furnishings)

Design Gallery Milano (Furnishings and Accessories)

B&B Italia (Modern Furniture Design)

Team byWellis (Swiss Furniture)

COR (German Furniture and carpets)

Hmmmm.....Maybe I should think about buying a loft...
All my friends would be jealous....