Lofts
When researching Lofts and Loft Living in Los Angeles one important aspects to help you determine what to focus on will be deciding on if you want to live in an adaptive re-use building such as a “loft” or a new construction “soft loft”. The difference between these Lofts is explained and some information about each style is provided, so you can determine which the best fit is for you!LOFTS:
Lofts are a type of condominium that originated when warehouses or historic buildings such as banks or factories were converted into apartments and condominiums. Here are some characteristics you might see in lofts: very high ceilings (sometimes 20-foot tall), exposed pipes and ducts in the ceiling, a great room floor plan, floor to ceiling windows, exposed interior brick, stained cement floors even in luxury homes, metal stairs and handrails, stainless steel kitchen appliances, and modern/contemporary furnishings, often located near a downtown area. If there is a historic factor involved in the loft building, often there is a tax incentive to the buyer called the “Mills Act”.SOFT LOFTS:
Soft Lofts have a very different feel from adaptive re-use projects. Soft lofts are generally built new so they will miss some of the charm like exposed brick and dramatic concrete flooring and the over sized windows. Often drywall will hide the ducting and electrical, yet they will have open flowing floor plans like a loft and many will have the high ceilings.There are pros and cons to each type of Loft living. Take time to think about what is most important to you about living in a loft as it will help you to choose just the right property. Please check MLS listings to see the Lofts that are available so you can decide if you want a soft Loft or an Adaptive re-use project!
