Today, the loft blueprint exerts a powerful influence on the design of our homes, both in terms of space planning and the use of materials. Lofts come in all shapes and sizes and a host of interior styles. what makes a loft a loft is no longer dependent on size and the presence of industrial details, but has to do with fundamental qualities of planning and design that are equally applicable in more conventional livings spaces. Written by leading interior writer Elizabeth Wilhide, New Loft Living presents the latest take on the loft ideal, with a selection of new and innovative converted spaced by some of the most highly regarded architects and designers in Europe and the USA. Part 1: Space Planning examines structural ways to exploit volume, and looks at ways to balance open areas and private enclosures with the use of pods and screens. Part 2: Decor & Design assesses materials and furnishings--eveyrthing from glass, wood, and metal to plastic, rubber, and stone--and illustrates how loft spaces allow you to break free from the constraints of conventional decorating with the use of contemporary and sometimes unexpected materials. It also shows how devices such as lighting and photomurals can be employed to great effect. Part 3: Zones explains how to optimize the space at your disposal. Clever storage frees up space, while ingenious transformable fittings allow you to it for different needs. There are also solutions for creating a flexible flow of activities within a single space, integrating work areas within the home and making the most of outside spaces. Interspersed throughout are 14 case studies, complete with the architect's plan, which tell the fulls stories of the best examples of innovative architecture and design and offer insight into different spacial arrangements. Definitive, aspirational, practical, and authoritative, New Loft Living illustrates how, at the beginning of the twenty-first century, loft living has truly come of age.