Loft Spaces for Small Places
Crunched for space, the residents of these homes—mostly under 1,000 square feet—have the same ideas: look upward and compartmentalize. Lofted sleeping areas, closets, and reading nooks are among the smart space-saving solutions.
The sleeping loft is fitted with mahogany rails.
An alcove above the kitchen discreetly houses a sleeping space for guests.
Two bedrooms flank a petite loft space, bringing the apartment's total sleeping spaces to three.
A small dining room occupies the space just beyond the living room. It’s furnished with vintage folding chairs designed by Danish architect Mogens Koch that are easily stored for more space.
“We took away a very thick, heavy staircase that led to the loft, and designed one that had a much lighter look,” Wåhlin says. “The new one, made of steel, looks simple and indeed light—but is in fact super heavy and was a real challenge to construct.”
With a built-in sofa and sleeping loft, ATLAS can accommodate three adult travelers.
Hernandez and Surratt relax in the living room, which is enlivened by the house’s internal topography. A short flight of steps divides the interconnected areas and offers a place to sit. Above is a loft that can be converted to a bedroom.
The upstairs loft is an office-cum-craft room. Evidence of the family’s DIY nature is omnipresent. Hale built a planter box and art-supply cubbies with leftover plywood. The space is equipped with plumbing hookups in case—or more likely, when—the family chooses to convert the area into a third bedroom and bathroom.
A floating steel staircase ties the living area and loft together. Variegated steel tubes provide graphic punch while maintaining the apartment’s airy and open feeling.