By Erica Young
Maximize space and style with these designs adults and kids will love.
COURTESY @THE LITTLE PINK NEST/INSTAGRAM
What Is a Loft Bedroom?
A loft is an open living space directly under the roof of a house. By definition, that’s where you would expect to find a loft bedroom. But more often, the term “loft bedroom” denotes style or design rather than location. In this case, an element of the room (usually the bed) is elevated above the rest of the space.
“A loft bedroom can be a bedroom with a raised sleeping area or landing that is accessed by stairs or a ladder,” says interior designer Andrea Harvey. “It can also be a raised bed with room underneath, often for seating or a workspace.”
What are the advantages of a loft bedroom?
“This is a great way to maximize vertical space, especially in a tiny home or even an attic bedroom,” Harvey says. “Loft bedroom designs are often utilized in kids’ rooms, dorms, vacation rentals, tiny homes or in small studio apartments.”
Is a loft bedroom a good idea for adults?
Absolutely. You’ll most commonly see loft bedrooms in a child’s room, but that doesn’t mean adults can’t get in on the fun! A loft bedroom can be the solution to Layout issues in a small space.
“A loft bedroom can be a great option for tiny homes as well as maximizing a vacation rental,” Harvey says. “I definitely think that loft spaces can be a cute and creative option when space is limited.”
About the Expert
Andrea Harvey is an interior designer with more than 20 years experience in the industry. The founder of ASH Interiors and Design, she is a member of American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), The Hospitality Industry Network (NEWH) and Black Interior Design Network (BID).
Studio Loft Bedroom
This loft bedroom built by -@cartograph and his wife Sarah was the perfect solution to the space limitations in their 500-square-foot studio. This DIY project maximizes the vertical space under the tall ceilings and complements their eclectic style.
Underneath the loft: A dresser, pegboard and hanging clothes rails provide even more clever space-saving storage solutions.
COURTESY @ANDREA.VD.MEER/INSTAGRAM
Double Loft Beds
These beds from @andrea.vd.meer are a fun alternative to bunk beds in this shared kids’ space. A set of stairs accesses both beds, and it opens the space underneath for a desk area and toy storage.
Kids will love the novelty of sleeping on an elevated platform, but the real benefit is the extra floor space this type of design creates.
COURTESY @THE LITTLE PINK NEST/INSTAGRAM
Cozy Tween Loft Bedroom
Here’s another loft style bedroom from @the_little_pink_nest that would excite any kid, tween or teen! Louise McGerty-Harper and her husband framed the bed with wood and used plywood for the platform. The coral paint color and cargo net makes it even more cozy.
The space under a loft bed is full of potential in a kid’s room. Seen here, a hanging swing can be used for reading and lounging, and it’s the perfect spot for a dresser.
COURTESY @ALINACOCEMELOVA/INSTAGRAM
Loft Bedroom With Shelf Stairs
What’s not to love about this gorgeous loft bedroom from @alinacocemelova? The unpainted wood gives the structure a nice natural look, along with the hanging plant with vines growing along the length of the platform.
Notice how you can access the bed space from stairs that double as storage shelves — genius! The elevated bed makes the living room space underneath roomier with plenty of seating.
Safety note: These shelf stairs lack a railing, so use a design like this with caution. This would not be appropriate for young children.
COURTESY @THECURIOUSDOER/INSTAGRAM
Loft Bedroom Above Kitchen
This loft bedroom from @thecuriousdoer (you can also find her at @wildparlour and Wild Parlour ) is uniquely placed above the kitchen in her small apartment.
This layout probably wouldn’t work for everyone, but her apartment is well-ventilated so food smells aren’t a big concern. This cute little space proves that when you get creative, the right layout solution can be functional and stylish.
Dreamy Loft Bedroom
Watch as @frontlinediy. turns the empty space underneath this DIY loft bed into a dreamy escape.
Inexpensive string lights and mosquito netting transformed this area into a cozy hangout. Throw down a few pillows and blankets and it would be a fabulous reading spot! The lights feature multiple settings and never get hot.
Peel-and-Stick Loft Flooring
In her tiny Brooklyn apartment,@ivangellys turned this elevated storage space into a bedroom.
It started as a bare-bones space. To make it feel more welcoming, she installed peel-and-stick vinyl flooring that looks like wood. Along with neutral bedding and minimal decor, the loft is now calming and cozy.
Secret Door Loft Bed
This bed by @melissagarchiediy features bookshelves that open to reveal a hidden room underneath!
The base of the project is the IKEA Smastad loft bed. But the bookshelves, secret door and paint accents are all custom touches. Notice there’s even a rock climbing wall next to the bed for an alternate access point.
Remember: Any modifications to the ladder installation could result in safety concerns for young children.
