Creating an Urban Style in Your Suburban Home

When you turn the pages of a design magazine, do you find yourself coveting the sleek surroundings of loft dwellers? Sure, you have responsibilities now, but just because you live on a cul-de-sac doesn’t mean you can’t have a taste of that urban lifestyle.

Originally, a loft was a living space built within a re-purposed industrial building. People found the look so appealing that new loft developments were built all around the country. Today’s purpose-built lofts often share the key design elements of the original lofts:
• High ceilings
• Concrete or wood floors
• Exposed ductwork
• Fewer walls, with large rooms serving multiple functions
• Unadorned windows
• Contemporary furniture with simple, clean lines
• A minimalist approach to accessories

You can evoke the “loft look” in your home regardless of the style of your home’s exterior by following these steps:

1) Get inspired!

Flip through interior design magazines for new ideas. Visit local loft developments and see their furnished models. Seek out stores that sell contemporary furniture and fixtures. Talk to friends who share your interest in modern design.

2) Evaluate your surroundings.

Look around your home to determine which rooms have architectural elements that would suggest a loft-inspired design. While it would be unusual to find exposed ductwork in modern homes, large rooms and high ceilings are common. Wood floors or exposed beams can also contribute to the loft illusion.

3) Modify the space.

If it fits within your budget, replacing carpet with wood flooring can go a long way toward evoking a loft-like feeling. Track lights can also help. Also consider your window coverings. A real loft might have bare windows, but if privacy is a concern, consider rigid panels, blinds or simple sheers.

4) Select your furniture.

Purists would point you to the exclusive (and expensive) original designs of the mid-century modern movement, but the resulting environment can be cold and uninviting. Our suggestion is to incorporate the appealing elements of modern design – like its simplicity and clean lines – but select pieces that are warmer and more comfortable. Minimize hard or reflective surfaces (like chrome) in favor of rich chocolate finishes.

5) Accessorize sparingly.

The key here is restraint. Instead of multiple small accessories that compete for the eye’s attention, pick just a few large, dramatic ones. A colorful large painting, a grouping of oversized planters or vases, or a strategically placed metal sculpture will give your space that sophisticated,
urban look.

6) Have fun!

The greatest thing about design is that there are no rules. Don’t be afraid to experiment. If you aren’t satisfied with the final result, you can always tweak it. And soon your loft-like environment will be the envy of the neighborhood!