Interiors

June 20, 2025 – Published in Design & Decor Spring-Summer 2022 issue

Loft living

Words Kenneth Tanti

Photography Cyril Sancereau

Everyone loves a wide-open space to live in freely nowadays. The concept of living in one large interior that showcases various aspects of your daily routines, is something I have always found fascinating.

Loft spaces have become more and more sought after and may be achieved by either looking for a property with an existing large open interior or alternatively you can create that space yourself, by doing structural changes to a new or even better, to an old build period building. If you are really lucky, you can find double height spaces which will then really echo the word “loft”. Dividing these heights by adding galleries to host the bedrooms or even a study, looking down onto the living space below. Take advantage of this height by suspending dramatic light fittings from the far up ceiling until you reach your kitchen island. 

Having recently worked on quite a few loft spaces we have learnt the importance of good heating and cooling systems. A method that can cope in climatizing the desired temperature of this large open space can sometimes be quite a feat. Naturally my first choice for heating is by using underfloor heating. The heat, gradually rising under your feet in the cold winter months, is as important to me as anything else; thus, creating a comfortable living space.

Converting loft spaces and furnishing them comes with a few challenges. First and foremost, the main one is creating a good-looking interior that must also serve and double as your main source for storage, cooking, sleeping and your daily life routines. All on show in one space. The use of hidden partitions or pocket curtains that can cover up any area which needs to be kept hidden from view is essential. For example, we have recently used the bed headboard: by overextending it width wise we were able to use it as the main wall to cover the bathroom ensuite which we left open with the bedroom. We try to keep spaces as open as possible in loft interiors. However as one can imagine there are limits. Closing off the WC in a separate space or having your laundry room covered off by sliding doors is strongly suggested. 

Kitchens are also the centre of attention in these spaces. Having the benefit of the large open space, the use of a central island is a blessing. The heart of the home can really beat happily in a space like this. Surrounded by stools to gather the family together for breakfast or to use this countertop as a serving space for when you have friends over to serve food, or perhaps as I prefer it, as a bar.

For some reason people think that lofts give off a masculine energy. However, this is not necessarily the formula. We have created beautiful loft spaces for female clients by adding beautiful decorations. 

The mixing of modern with classic and the use of soft colours in contrast with darker ones all come into play as one. 

What I find exciting is that element of surprise when one walks through what could be one small door only to find yourself immersed in an oversized space. The expression on my client’s face is priceless the first time they walk into their newly converted loft space. That’s the reward we get from the months of hard work.