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Loft Conversion - Episode 26

Grand Tour

Behind the Scenes - Loft Conversion
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Designer Lisa Shire helped define her concept for the loft space. "The loft renovation is a live/work space for an artist therefore the design had to be creative and interesting.  The only requirement was to keep an open plan with privacy for the bedroom and bathroom. The plan had to be simple so we used one major element - the yellow curved wall, to define the main spaces.

The curved wall was conceived of as a malleable form which could be carved into and transform as it moved through the different spaces it occupied. For instance, part of the wall becomes a buffet counter with cabinets above and to the sides to service and enlarge the kitchen.  In the bedroom the wall thickens to allow for a bedside bookcase and closet.
There was no storage space in the apartment so it had to be created. The perfect place became the entry hall because it was large enough to accommodate storage and away from the living spaces. The custom built unit was designed as if it were a large canvas. Its warm colors and materials (wood and metal) set the tone for the entire loft The piece is angled so it is entirely visible from the entry door and leads to the steps of the main space.
The kitchen is the first space along the curved wall and is 18" higher from the living space. Raising the floor was advantageous for us because it gives the sense of being a separate space without having to build walls. The smaller scale also creates a more intimate environment for the kitchen and bedroom. We used stainless steel counters, appliances and shelving. To balance this a maple butcher block table and dark wood floors were introduced. The yellow curved wall also helps to soften the impact of the stainless steel.
Maximizing space was certainly another objective in this renovation. A pocketing door leads to the bedroom and flat file storage is built underneath the platform. Bookcases are built into one side of the kitchen counter and they also act as a hand rail down into the living space. Sliding plantation shutters form one wall (when closed) overlooking the painting studio and filter light from the large windows."

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