Balancing Heritage with Modern Living
This 2,800 square foot loft in a converted textile factory presented both opportunities and challenges. The clients wanted to preserve the industrial character—exposed brick walls, timber beams, and concrete floors—while creating a comfortable, contemporary living space that accommodated both family life and work-from-home needs.
The central design challenge involved respecting the building’s historical elements while introducing modern conveniences and improving energy efficiency. We retained and restored the original wooden beams, cast-iron columns, and brick walls, making them focal points of the design. Large factory windows were preserved but retrofitted with energy-efficient glazing to maintain the industrial aesthetic while improving thermal performance.
The floor plan was reconfigured to create a spacious open-concept living area that flows into a chef’s kitchen, while still providing private spaces for bedrooms and home offices. A new mezzanine level was carefully inserted to maximize living space without disrupting the loft’s soaring ceilings and sense of openness.
Materials were selected to complement the building’s industrial heritage—blackened steel, reclaimed wood, and polished concrete—while adding warmth through textiles, custom cabinetry, and strategic lighting. Custom furniture pieces were designed specifically for the space, including a dining table made from reclaimed factory floorboards and steel fixtures salvaged during demolition.
The project was completed within 8 months and came in 5% under budget, despite supply chain challenges. The renovation has been featured in Architectural Digest and Urban Living Magazine as an exemplary blend of historical preservation and modern design.
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Date
18 Jul 2023
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Client Name
Marcus & Claire Donovan