SPACES | STYLISH LOFT LIVING

A loft-style apartment comes with certain distinguishing features, such as a maximum of two or three large bedrooms and a contemporary open kitchen. Designed by Parushni Aggarwal’s Studio Creo, the bedroom on the lower floor of this Bangalore residence can be used as a workplace, while the large bedroom on the upper floor can be transformed into a multi-use family lounge. The double-height ceiling in the living room allows a lot of natural light and ventilation.

Explains Parushni, “The client required a sophisticated and contemporary look. The loft apartment was designed keeping in mind a young Indian couple. For the living area, we opted for minimalistic modern furniture designs with clean straight lines in light coloured wood and solid coloured upholstery. You can choose a comfortable squashy couch in neutral coloured upholstery for a similar effect.”

As we enter the apartment, our eyes are directed to the efficiently designed open kitchen, a testament to the latest trend of modern living. The black and white lacquered kitchen is designed to reflect simplicity with utility. Open kitchens assist in maintaining an expansive yet accessible environment. There is a separate utility area for washing machines, etc.

There are three bathrooms, which are spacious with great lighting, lots of mirror work, windows, good vanity systems and a primary colour of white. A special collection of tiles was developed with the Italian vendors to match the look of cement or concrete. Wooden flooring has been used in some special spaces including the staircase to bring in some warmth. The central courtyard has a green vertical wall and outdoor seating.

Says Parushni, “For the bedroom, a small loft bed with additional storage for storing linen is a must. A dresser for storage as well as a wall-mounted television can be placed in this area. A small wardrobe that comes with space-saving shelves and drawers is also a good idea. If you have an ugly steel wardrobe or have inherited a huge wooden wardrobe, just paint it in a light colour like apple green or eggshell blue and transform it into unique pieces of furniture.”

                                     TIPS FOR A LOFT-STYLE APARTMENT
Don’t be bogged down by the concept of a single giant room, where you will be devoid of privacy. You can always divide a loft into small segments, which will make it look homely.
Decorating a loft entails getting around the floor plan, creating more space and storage options. Break up the space, using colour to your advantage and investing in storage options.

Furniture that is not in solid wood, but has some metallic accents in steel and chrome are ideal for a loft apartment. Don’t place too much furniture together.
Use accessories like glass and steel lamps, wall clocks and wall hangings to give the apartment some style and character.
Furnishings for the loft apartment like curtains should be in soft and light fabrics such as linen and cotton. Stay away from bold and busy prints and fabrics like velvet, jacquard and heavy silks.