subject: Loft Style Living in Manhattan – a Look at Both Sides of the Coin [print this page] Loft Style Living in Manhattan a Look at Both Sides of the Coin
It wasn't too long ago when loft style living was associated with a lifestyle fit only for questionable characters and junkies. Nobody in their right mind would willingly opt to live in one and those that did were often considered rebels and out of their mind. While there was enough space in a loft to host a ball dance on a grand scale, their location and lack of amenities made them less than desirable. The neighborhood was gritty and shady and essentials such as heat, electricity and plumbing were lacking. You could hardly call that ideal living
Isn't it strange how things change in a matter of years? Today, living in a loft is something of a lifestyle statement the positive kind, of course. You no longer invite strange looks when you want to rent apartment in Manhattan and show a preference for loft style living. In fact, the lofts one comes across today can be a large and elegant residence or a small and cozy space tucked away in an abandoned office space. In both cases, lofts have become highly desirable living spaces.
People looking to rent or buy apartment in NY, would do well to consider a loft, in case they place a high premium on living space. A loft is literally flooded with natural light and the high ceilings give a feeling of expanse to it. In a space starved New York, you feel almost rich when you are able to enjoy so much of it in your home.
However, while all is not hunky dory for those who rent apartment in NY, it is a tad bit more difficult for those who want lofts. As you check apartment listings on sites like RealdealNY.com you will notice that when it comes to loft style residences, less is more.
To begin with, storage space is pretty limited and the closets that are provided leave a lot to be desired. Lack of walls in a loft can make furniture placement and displaying art a bit of a challenge. Think of living in a loft like living in an RV or a yacht. You only bring stuff that is absolutely essential - nothing more and certainly nothing that is an extravagance!
Another major issue of living in a loft is lack of privacy. If you are looking to rent an apartment in New Yorkand you are super finicky about privacy issues, you may want to look at other options in New York. A loft is just an expanse of open space, which is covered by one sweeping gaze of the eye? It's not simply a matter of making private space for yourself within the house; there's also the issue of your life exposed to all and sundry that can peep in through your windows.
Scary as these drawbacks might sound right now, don't let that put you off dreaming about that "lofty" residence and looking up suitable apartment listings in NY. There are ways and means of getting around these tiny setbacks. For instance, should you need more wall space and privacy, you could always invest in sliding doors or flex wall, which are available in wide variety. And, the best part is that they can be easily customized to your requirement.
You can maximize closet space by using closet organizers. There are interesting DIY projects that are quite easy to put together. Most home improvement stores will provide off-the-shelf materials and even help you with the design. If that doesn't appeal to you, try freestanding armoires. They make great storing options and they lend a bit of antique grace to your living space.
Living in a loft isn't everybody's cup of tea. But for those who do consider it, a virtually endless range of options open up. No other living space offers so much flexibility and possibility of customization, not to mention the luxury of space and natural light. However, if you are not inclined to spend money building up someone else's property and you prefer a residence that needs minimal makeover, you should look for other options in New York.
Find apartments, co-ops, lofts and condos in New York atRealDealNY.com
