Top 6 ways to design your loft in Washington, DC

Lofts in Washington, DC are popular rental units no matter what neighborhood you’re in. It might be the high ceilings, massive windows or the openness that speaks to renters and creates a unique living in experience. 

But having a loft comes with its own design challenges. If you’re stumped, here’s how to design your Washington, DC loft to make the most of this cool space.

What is a loft apartment?

Loft apartments are pretty common in Washington, DC, especially as many older homes have been converted to multi-unit buildings.

These units have open spaces on the main floor, usually with one bathroom and kitchen, and then a set of stairs leading to an open top floor where the occupant usually sleeps. There is no door or enclosed space separating the top space from the space below, but there is sometimes a bathroom up there. Lofts often have high ceilings and tall windows, and some main floors have extra bedrooms.‍

Tips for designing the perfect loft

Lofts, like any apartment type, come with their own design challenges, but if you’re creative and flexible, then you can make the space work for you.

One major plus side of renting a loft is the massive windows that provide a ton of light. At the same time, those windows offer very little privacy and can add a glare to your TV if you’re trying to watch a show on a lazy Saturday. With windows so big, installing blinds might not be an option. To create privacy that you can move, invest in a room divider. These accordion-like dividers look stylish while providing you with the privacy you need. You can move them when you want to admire the view, and if you buy two or three, they can stretch across all the windows.

Many renters love the high ceilings and the feeling of openness that a loft offers, but because heat rises, it can feel cold in the unit. To keep yourself warm without paying an arm and a leg in your heating bill, try:

• Laying down area rugs and runners. Rugs keep your feet warm when you’re moving around the unit, and they can add some color and style if you’re not able to paint the walls. Choose a wool rug with a thick pile for plenty of softness.
• Investing in chunky blankets, pillows and poufs. The more you have to snuggle with, the warmer you’ll be when relaxing in your Washington, DC loft.
  

Now that your loft has some privacy and feels cozy, you can tackle the layout and design.

6 creative ways to decorate your loft

Ready to design your perfect loft? Here are six expert tips for any renter to turn that loft space into a home.

Face your bedroom away from the windows: Sure, you’ll want to admire the view, but you won’t want the sunshine to wake you up at 7 a.m. — especially on a Sunday.

Opt for neutral colors: When no space has its own definite walls, you don’t want to blend too many colors or designs. Choose neutral colors for furniture and use throw pillows and wall decor to add some color.

‍Add plants to improve the greenery and air quality: Big windows means lots of natural light for plants, and having plants around can improve the air quality in the room.

Don’t forget table or floor lamps: With big windows, it’s easy to forget that you’ll need adequate lighting when the sun goes down. Add a few lamps so the space feels inviting at night.

‍Find furniture that has multiple purposes: Ottomans with storage. Tables with folding leaves that can be turned into a side table. Furniture that can serve more than one purpose will be your best friend in a small loft space.

Hang long curtains to create doors and closets: When you don’t have a closet or a door, pulling curtains across to cover a dresser or block a bathroom doorway can add privacy.

Want to tour a loft apartment? Contact boutique agency Atlas Lane today and see if loft living feels right for you.