Origin: Emerged as old factories and warehouses in US cities such as New York were converted to housing from the mid-20th century.
The loft arose when old factories and warehouses in large American cities were converted to homes by artists and residents. Its hallmarks are open plans, high ceilings, big windows, bare brick walls, exposed services, and concrete or timber floors. Furniture mixes industrial pieces with older items and art for a spacious, characterful interior.
In Vietnam, lofts suit double-height apartments, townhouses with mezzanines and cafés. Use polished concrete or concrete-look tiles, brick slips, powder-coated steel and metal pendants. High ceilings need good roof insulation in summer; against humidity, seal concrete with a waterproof coat, avoid raw timber in wet areas and paint exposed pipes with rust-resistant coatings.
