WHAT IS INDUSTRIAL LIVING?

Industrial Living emerged with Loft Living in Paris in the mid-19th century as an ideal live-in studio for working artists. The oversized paintings of the time required expansive spaces with high ceilings & large windows for abundant light. VOILA! Residential Lofts were born. 

​

Converted Loft space in the United States originated early in the 20th century when storage warehouses near Boston & New York City's shipping ports were renovated into industrial living spaces. 

​

There are a ton of perspectives when it comes to what defines a Loft. Industrial Living can also refer to other types of dwellings offering an industrial style that draws inspiration and incorporates design elements from Loft living, such as Barndominiums. To me, Lofts can never be truly defined. They are inherently original - often possessing specific history, one-of-a-kind layouts & vintage elements. Nevertheless, here are some common characteristics found in Lofts & other Industrial Living spaces:

​

​

-OFTEN A BUILDING CONVERSION - FACTORIES, BANKS, WAREHOUSES, ETC.

-USUALLY FOUND IN AN URBAN OR INDUSTRIAL AREA OF THE CITY, LIKE DOWNTOWN OR PORTS OR RAILROAD

-EXPANSIVE OPEN LIVING SPACES WITH 14' + CEILINGS

-EXPOSED BUILDING MATERIALS ON INTERIOR WALLS - BRICK, STONE, CEMENT, ETC. 

-EXPOSED A/C DUCTS, PLUMBING PIPES, AND/OR OTHER UTILITIES

-CONTINUOUS SPACES, SUCH AS BEDROOMS WITHOUT SEPARATING WALLS OR DOORS

-ABUNDANCE OF NATURAL LIGHT, EXPANSIVE WINDOWS

-OPEN UPPER LEVEL - (LOFT SPACE)

-EXPOSED SUPPORT BEAMS/PILLARS