Loft apartments, whether converted from old industrial spaces or built new, are becoming increasingly popular among Americans seeking fun and alternative living spaces. But the unique designs of lofts often require the renter or owner to think differently about many aspects of living, from furniture and decorations to storage spaces.

Architect Jonathan Glasgow earned a Masters in Architecture and an MBA before starting his professional career by designing high-tech industrial facilities for Chicago firm Litton Industries. After moving to Southern California, Glasgow spent time adapting buildings in the Los Angeles Loft District, and is now a founding partner in Interstices Architecture and Interior Design. Here he discusses many of the unique challenges to furnishing and living in loft apartments and offers possible solutions:

• Scale.
  Before you move into a loft and begin furnishing it, Glasgow suggests that you be well acquainted with the scale. Lofts are big and open, and require a new way of thinking when it comes to designing living spaces within them.
  
• Furnishings and décor.
  Furnishings and items of décor that are perfect for a standard low ceiling, multi-room apartment might not work well in a loft. That potted plant that looked great by the bedroom widow of your old place might seem like a speck of greenery in the vast space of a loft. The same goes for artwork and furniture, which may need to be much larger so that they don't seem swallowed up by the scale of the loft.
  
• Storage.
  Since lofts are often designed without separate rooms or even closets, you'll have to give some thought to storage. Unless you're into the idea of all your belongings being out in the open, you should consider large storage cabinets, dividers to separate storage areas, or other innovative solutions.
  
• Acoustics.
  Finally, Glasgow points out that the concrete floors, concrete ceilings and open airspace of many lofts lead to acoustical problems like noticeable echoes. Soft area rugs and plush furniture can help absorb sound and lead to better acoustics.

For more information about apartment and loft living, check out the following organizations and websites:

Lofts Online
www.loftsonline.com

A Brief Loft History
www.loftsorlando.com

Apartment Style
www.apartmentstyle.bigstep.com

Apartment Living.net
www.apartment-living.net