How to Convert a Loft Into a Room

Lofts can easily be turned into usable rooms.

Using the loft space in your home is a smart and inexpensive way to add a new room to your home. Changing a loft into a room can be done with the help of accurate measurements and the correct furniture. Your new room could be used for a kids' playroom, an office or a getaway retreat for you. A loft room would be ideal for a guest bedroom, as well. Once you have decided how your space will be used, it will be a unique addition to your home.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Paper/pencil
• Skylight (optional)
• Insulation, if needed
• Painter's tape or life-sized furniture templates
• Armoire
• Sconces

Instructions

1. 

   Measuring the stair dimensions is important to do before buying furniture.

   Measure the dimensions of the loft: width, length and ceiling height. Make sure the ceiling height is tall enough to be a livable space. Write down the dimensions on your paper for future reference. Be sure to measure the dimensions of the stairwell and/or ceiling height of the stair entrance for reference when buying furniture.

2. 

   Skylights are an option for controlling the temperature in a loft room.

   Consider the temperature of the loft. If you have air conditioning, skip this step. If not, adding skylights that are able to open for ventilation is an option. A professional service should be contacted to install these if you are not able to. Adding adequate insulation will also keep the temperature controlled. A professional contractor should be contacted to install the insulation.

3. 

   Templates can be used to plan for furniture.

   Plan out what furniture you will need before shopping for furniture. Life-sized furniture templates are available to help pre-design your room. These are paper models that can be cut to size so that you can see the exact placement of the furniture you plan to buy. A cheaper choice is to use painter's tape to outline where you would place the furniture. Write down your planned pieces on paper. Ask yourself: Do I need storage? Do I need sleeping space? Do I need a desk?

4. 

   Choose colors at the light end of the paint strips to make the space feel larger.

   Paint the loft room in colors that are on the light end of paint strips. This will make the space appear larger and have an open feel. Take your measurements for the room with you to the paint store and the paint professionals will tell you how much to purchase.

5. 

   An armoire with hanging rails or a fold-out desk and storage is perfect for a loft space.

   Purchase an armoire according to your measurements. An armoire is a storage piece that is versatile. This piece can be used as a desk or to hold children's supplies or clothing for guests.

6. 

   Sconces in a loft space eliminate the need for floor lamps or overhead lighting

   Purchase sconces for lighting. Sconces are installed directly onto the wall and eliminate the need for floor lamps or overhead lighting. You may want to hire a professional electrician to do the wiring for the sconces.

Tips & Warnings

• If your loft space currently has fold-down stairs, you might want to consider adding permanent stairs before you start. They come ready-made, and a professional stair company will install them. They are available in many styles.

• Be sure to add paintings or photographs to personalize your space and give it character.