Loft apartments seem to be all the rage lately, especially in desirable metropolitan areas like New York City. But what is a loft apartment, really?
Think of a loft as a studio apartment on steroids. Whereas both offer an all-in-one approach to living, with the kitchen, bedroom and living space all in one open area, there are some major distinctions that separate lofts from studios.
Loft living is unique, indeed. But what is a loft, and what is it like living in one? Here are some of the basics about lofts that help to separate them from the rest of the rental pack.
Types of loft apartments
Hard lofts, soft lofts, studios and condos — how can you tell them all apart? Keep reading to learn about the different layouts and what makes a loft different from other housing types.
Hard lofts vs. soft lofts
A “hard loft” is what most people envision when thinking of loft space. Converted from historic buildings, hard lofts often have those charming features like exposed brick, support beams, and other details that give them that distinctive industrial look.
Meanwhile, “soft lofts” are modern buildings that mimic the look of traditional hard lofts. Soft lofts share similar finishes with hard lofts, but they often have much better amenities, like community spaces and built-in storage. This is because they don’t have to work within the confines of the original structure, however, some of the authenticity is lost in translation.
Loft vs. condo
Lofts and condos are similar in that they can both be either rented or owned. A significant advantage of owning a condo or loft is that you can make any changes you want to your property, but tenants can still customize their rental space with renter-friendly home upgrades.
However, the difference between lofts and condos is that condos are still jointly owned with neighboring residences. Most condos have a homeowner’s association (HOA) that maintains the space, similar to how a management company takes care of an apartment complex.
Loft vs. apartment
While most apartments can only be rented, lofts can be either rented or owned. Apartments also come with walled-off bedrooms, while lofts are typically large open spaces that function as extra-large “studio” style apartments.
The open-concept style of lofts makes them more of a “blank canvas” to design, but because lofts are so unique and in demand, they also come with a higher price tag.
Loft vs. studio
While lofts and studios are similar in that they are comprised of a single, multi-use living space rather than separate rooms, they vastly differ in size and style. Lofts are distinctively urban and industrial, whereas studio apartments can often be found in most typical apartment buildings.
Lofts also tend to be more expensive than studios. This is especially true of hard lofts, which are in high demand. While a loft can give you that one-of-a-kind, pre-war charm, a studio is an option that’s cozy, comfortable and wallet-friendly.
Pros of living in a loft apartment
Lofts are more than just a unique place to call home. Here are some additional advantages that come with living in a loft apartment.
1. Personality and charm
Obsession with loft living began when builders began to repurpose old industrial buildings into residential spaces. Often, many of the industrial by-products remained and lent a very specific charm to such spaces in the form of interior brick walls and exposed pipes/beams, etc. These authentic touches are often what give lofts a decidedly eclectic feel.
2. Loft apartments are more spacious
Because lofts are converted factories, they’re also more spacious than a modern apartment or condo would be. For comparison’s sake, studio apartments are almost always 500 square feet or less in size, whereas true lofts are three or four times that size.
The super-high ceilings can make them seem even bigger than that! However, you’ll usually end up paying a premium for the extra space, especially since lofts are often in trendy, high-demand areas like Manhattan.
3. Few, if any walls
While apartments and condos are limited by set layouts, lofts can be made into whatever you want them to be since they’re typically one large open space. Lofts can be broken up into open-concept rooms with furniture and dividers, so you can pick and choose what areas of your home become the focal point.
Indeed, loft apartments are the very definition of open-concept living. As a result, the only necessary walls are those that set up the exterior, as well as a few all-important bathroom walls. Open concept is great and all, but people have limits to how much they’re willing to put on display!
4. More natural light and high ceilings in loft apartments
A significant benefit of loft living is the amount of natural light that pours through the windows at all hours of the day. Since lofts are often in converted warehouses or factories, they usually come with extra tall ceilings and beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows that soak the space in sunshine.
The standard apartment has ceilings that are eight or nine feet in height, which is plenty for the vast majority of people. Lofts, however, are known for their spacious, airy feel, typically afforded by ceilings that are a minimum of 10 feet tall, often closer to 16 or 17 feet! No one is in danger of hitting their head in a loft.
Cons of living in a loft apartment
Before signing on the dotted line, it’s important to understand both sides of living in a loft apartment, as it does come with some added expenses and considerations.
1. Utilities are more expensive in loft apartments
Loft apartments are big and open, so you need to pay for utilities like heating and air conditioning that go along with such a large space. On top of that, the big windows and old brick walls aren’t great insulators, so you’ll probably be running the heat or air conditioner more often than you would in a traditional apartment.
2. Loft apartments don’t have rooms separated by walls
One of the largest draws of loft living is also a potential drawback. A loft apartment is like a big studio unit, so there’s only one room. This means that any mess is on full display from anywhere in the unit. If you want separate living areas (or just to hide some junk), you’ll have to create “walls” yourself using room dividers, curtains or bookshelves.
3. Loft apartments often lack storage space
Because many lofts don’t have built-in storage spaces like closets, you’ll have to create your own storage space with dressers, trunks or storage-specific furniture. Some loft owners opt for an external storage unit to keep their space looking clean and open — a cost that can add up significantly over time.
4. Loft apartments are slightly more expensive
While an average 1-bedroom was $1,621 per month in 2020, studio apartments (often grouped with lofts) cost a steeper $1,691 per month. With lofts, you end up paying a premium for the extra open space — especially in big cities, where extra space is a rare luxury.
Is loft living right for you?
Loft apartments aren’t for everyone, and they can be hard to come by, to boot. If you’re lucky enough to come across one that’s open, take a look at your living situation to decide if it is a suitable living option for your specific needs.
Ready to live in your own industrial (or imitation) loft apartment? Check out the Rent. search tool to get started today!
