5 Ways to Make the Most of a Loft Apartment! Introducing Who Stands to Benefit Most from a Loft

2024-09-24

Some people may wonder how to make the most of apartments with a loft. Loft apartments are popular in rental properties for single occupants because of the extra space they provide.

However, many people regret their decision because their loft becomes just a storage room instead of being utilized effectively. In this article, we’ll explore how to make the most of a loft, as well as who is and isn’t suitable for one. If you’re considering renting a room with a loft, please use this article as a reference.

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Usage Method ①: Turn the loft into a bedroom

Even with a space-saving loft, a loft can be a comfortable bedroom for someone living alone. Additionally, using the loft as a bedroom allows you to separate it from the living room, which can help create a more structured daily routine.

Moreover, if you install a projector, the loft can also be used as a space for watching movies. You can relax while watching movies, which will make your time in the loft more enjoyable.

Usage Method ②: Turn the loft into a study room

Another option is to use the loft as a study room. By using the loft as a study room, you can separate your private space from when you are working remotely or studying, creating an environment where you can concentrate efficiently without being distracted.

Furthermore, it is advisable to choose a low desk and chair for the loft. If there are no power outlets in the loft, it is convenient to have a portable light present in the room.

Usage Method ③: Turn the loft into a hobby room

Since the loft has a secret base-like atmosphere, it can be used as a hobby room where you can immerse yourself in doing what you love. For example, if you like manga, you could store them on low shelves to create a space like a manga café. Or, if you’re a movie enthusiast, you could turn it into a dedicated movie room with better sound quality.

Furthermore, you can freely create a space tailored to your hobbies, such as setting up a music room with an amplifier and guitar, which tend to get in the way if placed in the living room.

Usage Method ④: Turn the loft into an indoor drying space

In typical rental properties, indoor spaces for drying laundry are limited, so people often use door knobs or curtain rails for laundry hanging indoors. However, drying laundry indoors can look unsightly and might be inconvenient when you have visitors come over.

On that note, if the loft has handrails or fences, you can hang laundry there without using a separate clothes rack. In addition, if you hang laundry in the loft space and use a circulator or air conditioner at the same time, your laundry will dry faster.

Usage Method ⑤: Turn the loft into a storage room

If you’re unsure of how to make use of the loft, consider using it as a storage room. It’s ideal for storing off-season clothes, futons, and hobby equipment that you only use a few times a year.

When storing clothes in the loft, placing a simple chest of drawers such as a clear chest can help you keep your precious clothes in good condition for a long time. For clothes that don’t fit in chests or can’t be folded, setting up a low-hanging rack will allow you to store bulky clothes as well.

Points to consider when viewing a loft apartment

Availability of power outlets

When apartment viewing, make sure to check if there are any power outlets in the loft. If you plan to use the loft as a bedroom, you’ll need power outlets for lighting and charging your smartphone. Similarly, if you plan to use it as a study room, you’ll need power outlets for devices such as a computer or printer. If there are no power outlets in the loft, you can use an extension cord from the room below for electricity.

Try to climb up to the loft in person

When viewing an apartment, it’s important to climb up to the loft to check how comfortable it is to use. However, if you find it narrow or hotter than expected, you may want to consider searching for another apartment.

Also, keep in mind that loft ceilings are typically limited to a height of 1.4 meters or less, so even people of smaller stature will have to crouch to move around. Therefore, it’s important to keep in mind that it will be difficult to spend time there in the same way as you would in your living room.

Presence of windows

Since lofts tend to retain heat, they require more ventilation than the floor below. Therefore, it is recommended to check in advance whether there is a window. If there is, make sure to also check how much it can be opened and closed.

Ladder placement

If the ladder to the loft is in the middle of the room, it is more likely to get in the way of your daily activities. On the other hand, if the ladder is placed at the edge of the room, it’s easier to arrange furniture and less likely to be an obstruction, making it a better option.

People who benefit most from loft apartments

For those who want to separate their living spaces

Generally, lofts in studio apartments for single occupants are about 2 to 3 tatami mats in size. By separating the living area from spaces like the bedroom or study room, you can create a more structured lifestyle. For example, using your loft as a home office can make it easier to concentrate, and using it as a bedroom can make it easier to avoid going back to sleep after getting up.

For those who want to live in an open and spacious apartment

The appeal of properties with lofts is that they typically have higher ceilings compared to regular properties, giving you a sense of spaciousness and openness. Aside from looking spacious visually, incorporating tall furniture and stylish ceiling lights can also create a unique and stylish space.

Since lofts offer a high degree of flexibility, you can make the most of the design, or create a highly functional space with plenty of storage, allowing you to customize it to your preferences in various ways.

For those who frequently have guests

If you often invite friends and family over to your home, a property with a loft is recommended. By storing items such as electric fans or heaters in the loft, you can keep the living area spacious and comfortable for guests. Additionally, if you have unexpected visitors, you can quickly stash items you want to hide in the loft, which can be convenient.

For those who need storage for hobby equipment

While lofts are commonly used as bedrooms, they can be effectively utilized to suit your lifestyle and preferences. For example, if you enjoy collecting games or manga, using the loft as your own personal hobby room is a great option.

Additionally, lofts are well-suited for storing items that are hard to place elsewhere, such as winter sports gear like skis and snowboards, camping equipment, or fishing gear.

People who benefit least from loft apartments

Tall people

The height of the loft ceiling varies depending on the property. However, the height of the loft is usually limited to 1.4m or less, so you need to be careful not to hit your head against the ceiling when moving. Tall people in particular may find it difficult to move around since they need to be careful not to hit their head and injure themselves.

For those who are sensitive to high or low temperatures

Lofts often lack windows, which can result in poor ventilation. As a result, it tends to be muggy in the summer and very cold in the winter. Additionally, even if you use an air conditioner, the airflow might not reach the loft effectively, increasing the risk of discomfort or health issues. If you are sensitive to high or low temperatures, you will need to be careful about how you spend your time in a loft.

Cleaning is a hassle

Lofts tend to collect dust easily, so regular cleaning is necessary. If you find cleaning the loft to be a hassle, a property with a loft may not be ideal for you.

In addition, if you use the loft as a bedroom, tasks such as hanging out your futon to dry can be troublesome, as you’ll need to use a ladder to take it down. There’s also a risk you might hurt yourself, so you need to be careful when using the loft.

At Village House, we offer over 1,000 rental properties all across Japan. With rents starting from around 20,000 yen, it’s a great option for those looking to save on housing costs. Please feel free to contact us for more information.