How to add a loft accent to your interior?
Loft-style interiors, inspired by industrial spaces, have become synonymous with modernity, minimalism, and functionality. They are characterised by the use of raw materials such as concrete, brick, metal, and wood, which, combined with large spaces and open interiors, create a unique atmosphere. If you dream of incorporating a loft-style accent into your home, below you will find a range of tips to help you create a spacious, industrial feel in any room.
Open space and raw materials
Loft-style interiors place great emphasis on spaciousness and open spaces. Traditional interiors often consist of closed-off rooms, divided by walls that separate different areas. In the case of lofts, the aim is to break down these barriers and connect spaces, making the home feel significantly larger. To achieve this look, consider an open-plan layout where the living room, dining area, and kitchen flow seamlessly into one another. Removing unnecessary partition walls, especially in the kitchen or hallway, helps create the effect of an industrial hall, which is bright and spacious.
Once spaciousness is ensured, it’s time to focus on raw materials, which are the foundation of loft-style interiors. Concrete walls, brick accents, and wood are classic elements of loft design. Concrete panels or exposed bricks, combined with warm-toned wooden flooring, create an intriguing contrast that enhances the industrial character of the space. Meanwhile, brick, especially in natural hues or burnt red, adds a rustic feel, while concrete accents bring a sense of rawness and modernity to the interior.
Industrial-style furniture
Furniture is a key element in any loft-style interior. This style avoids excessive ornamentation and decorative embellishments, instead prioritising minimalism and functionality. Furniture should be simple, geometric, durable, and solid. Metal frames, raw wood, and leather upholstery dominate loft-style decor.
Sofas and armchairs in loft interiors often have simple, geometric shapes. Leather upholstery in brown or black pairs perfectly with raw walls, adding an elegant touch. Coffee tables with metal legs and wooden tops are an ideal addition to a loft-style living room, as they combine simplicity and functionality. Shelving units and bookcases in loft spaces typically feature metal frames with plain wooden shelves, offering both aesthetic appeal and practicality—perfect for storing books, decorations, and small accessories.
Don’t forget about chairs and dining tables—metal-framed designs with minimalist lines work exceptionally well in industrial spaces. Many loft-style furniture pieces originate from industrial settings, so consider looking for second-hand items with history, as they will further emphasise the industrial atmosphere.
The Nimbus Snuggle Seat is an excellent choice for loft-style interiors. Its woven fabric upholstery is not only stylish and durable but also practical, especially if you have pets. Slim metal legs add lightness and an industrial touch, making it a perfect fit for raw, spacious lofts, where minimalist design meets functionality. The rich colour palette allows you to match the armchair to the rest of your decor, further enhancing the unique style of your interior.
Raw lighting
Lighting in loft-style interiors deserves special attention. Classic, decorative chandeliers are rarely seen in loft spaces; instead, industrial lamps with raw, simple forms take centre stage. Pendant lamps with large metal shades are a great choice, as they draw attention and enhance the character of the space. Exposed bulbs on long cables are a classic feature of loft-style lighting, adding both rawness and elegance while providing strong, focused illumination.
Installing metal or glass lamps with a retro aesthetic, reminiscent of old factory lighting, further reinforces the industrial look. Floor lamps are another great option, often featuring simple, minimalist structures that complement the loft aesthetic. The key is to avoid excessively decorative fixtures—instead, opt for subtle yet striking designs.
Metal and glass accents
Loft-style decor is all about combining raw materials with modern minimalism, making metal and glass elements an essential part of the interior. Metal accents, such as handles, door knobs, and decorative accessories, can be found in nearly every room, from the kitchen and bathroom to the living room and hallway. Metal chairs, tables with metal frames, and mirrors in metal frames seamlessly fit into the industrial aesthetic.
Glass adds a sense of lightness to loft interiors. Glass coffee tables, glass shelves, and glass partition walls contribute to a feeling of spaciousness and openness. Glass lamps in loft-style designs are also an excellent choice, often featuring simple shapes that serve as subtle accents in an otherwise raw space.
A mix of styles and accessories
Loft-style interiors provide a versatile foundation for experimenting with different elements. While raw materials dominate, incorporating touches of retro, vintage, or even Scandinavian style can add personality. Accessories such as old typewriters, vintage posters, and metal storage boxes enhance the character of the space, making it more personal. The loft aesthetic offers endless possibilities for combining various trends and styles, so don’t be afraid to introduce pieces that complement the industrial vibe.
Other interesting additions include textiles like leather cushions, woollen throws, or linen curtains, which contrast with the hard, raw materials and make the space feel cosier. Rugs with simple patterns can highlight the raw flooring while adding a touch of warmth and comfort to the interior.
Colours and textures
Although loft interiors are often associated with shades of grey, black, and white, adding pops of colour can enhance the space. Deep green, burgundy, or rust orange work well with industrial materials like metal and concrete. These colours can appear on walls, decorative pieces, and accessories such as cushions or curtains.
Textures also play an important role in loft-style interiors. While hard materials like concrete and metal dominate, incorporating soft textures helps balance the space. Leather accents, wool cushions, and fabric curtains make the space cosier while maintaining its industrial character.
The Lioni 3 Seater Sofa is a perfect fit for both classic and modern interiors, and its simplicity makes it ideal for loft-style spaces. Its minimalist design, geometric shapes, and elegant velvet upholstery complement the raw character of loft interiors. The combination of soft, tactile fabric with metal or wooden accents creates a space that is both bold and inviting.
Plants – a natural touch in a raw interior
While loft-style interiors can feel cold, this doesn’t mean nature has no place in them. Plants are an excellent way to soften the industrial aesthetic. Tall potted plants, such as palms, olive trees, and cacti, bring a touch of life and colour into the space. Large plant pots work well in spacious interiors, attracting attention and adding warmth to the overall design.
Conclusion
Loft-style interiors combine rawness with modernity, creating a functional and characterful space. The key to success lies in the careful selection of materials, furniture, and accessories, which together form a cohesive industrial atmosphere. Remember, loft-style decor allows for creativity—mix raw materials with vintage elements, modern lighting, and plants to create a warm and inviting space. Whether you have a large loft or a smaller flat, this style will bring a unique character to your home.
