Loft 5H
Before
In this Phase I of 5H loft conversion, challenges were to warm up the space, provide separate task/living zones without dividing or taking away from the voluminous space of the loft. The owners wanted to later in phases II and III to upgrade the kitchen area as well as increase storage and function throughout the loft as well as address lighting issues.
As you can see the space is wonderful, but lacking soul or even personality and identity. I love a challenge like this one because I have the ability to take this large stagnant space and create zones of lifestyle and use as well as increase the value of the investment through minimal costs to the owner.
During
Phase I was to restore beams to original color and use them to begin to divide the space and define the heights and size of the space. After this phase is complete, the kitchen and entertaining area is next.
In Phase II, the kitchen needed to double in size and due to the narrow layout, did not allow for an island, so a follow through line kitchen that continues the old soffit line. Storage is also a major issue in most lofts and here was no exception. I designed a catwalk above the kitchen, which meant strength was needed to hold serious weight. In these images you can see the use of custom fabricated steel sideways T-cantilever beams married to 2 by 6 joists which were then through bolted to make this work with the flimsy metal studs that were there.
It looks scary, but the finished product is super strong and quite nice as you will see in next images :)
Phase II also came with a completely new kitchen, stainless appliances and custom concrete counters. Some of the cabinets I fabricated myself to match the Craft Made brand chosen by the loft owner. A custom double wide storage pantry closet was also added. All this cabinetry, closet space and new catwalk increased storage more than 5 times.
After completion of Phase II, a 3rd phase was discussed and a simple design drawn up to conceal some existing storage surrounding and below the steel sleeping loft. The loft has one end with natural light and no other source, therefore the idea to add ambient light in the form of dimming florescent bulbs behind frosted glass solved this issue nicely. Working with master welder and fabricator Bill Curran, a steel framed upper and lower wall with sliding glass panel doors was created. Sliding and panel doors save tons of floor space as well as have a very clean and modern feel and look. After completing the main section, I then went in and custom fabricated more glass and steel panels to hide any gaps or spaces. Then it was on to lighting.
After
Stripping the old plaster wall to reveal the warm brick, yet leaving some behind gives a warmth that is reinforced by the complete stripping and staining of all of the enormous 100 year old timber beams. Color and paint, always the first thing I recommend considering when thinking of renovating a space, was artfully done with the help of master painter Keith Irons. His recommendations and guidance blended seamlessly with my design and plan to enlarge a space through smarter special designation rather than increased square footage. The blend of warms, cools and modern industrial steel makes this space truly amazing and most important, created a repeat client and friend for life :)
