Lofty Ambitions: Celebrity Designer Vern Yip Offers Advice on How to Transform Open Spaces Into a Home

Lofts have become a widely accepted housing alternative attracting young couples, empty nesters and the trend conscious in cities nationwide. Because lofts are often industrial spaces converted for residential living, there are issues regarding décor that homeowners in traditional homes don't have to contend with.

Lofts generally have wall-sized open windows, concrete floors, brick walls and almost no separation of living space, such as a separate dining room, living room or even bedroom. These features require a different approach to home design. Celebrity designer Vern Yip offers advice on how you can separate rooms in an open space, introduce color and style, reduce sound reverberation and create a comfortable, cozy space.

According to Vern, a modern, edgy style fits these types of spaces. People who choose loft spaces are often interested in chic window treatments, colors, furniture and accessories.

Rugs are a great way to inject color into loft space. There is typically a lot of brick and window space in lofts, prohibiting the use of color on walls. Loft owners are usually willing to experiment with color, so rugs, drapes and throw pillows are great ways to introduce color in a room, says Vern.

Popular options for loft spaces include bound carpet and surged rugs with multi-level loop and cut-loop textures in striking geometric patterns and bold color. Bound carpet and surged rugs, according to Vern, are also an easy way to create separate living areas within a loft such as a living area and separate dining area, eliminating the openness of these spaces and developing a cozier atmosphere.

Another factor to consider in loft spaces is sound, says Vern. Because loft spaces often have hard surfaces, such as concrete or hard woods, sound tends to bounce around the room. Others living below you may also feel - and hear - the effects of sound reverberation in such spaces. Bound carpet and surged rugs not only add beauty to the space, but they also absorb sound, creating a more pleasant atmosphere for you and your neighbors.

Bound carpet and surged rugs can help pull together your look and create a more cohesive area in lofts spaces. STAINMASTER® carpet offers an array of bound and surged carpet that will fit your personal style and home décor.

For a look at STAINMASTER® area rugs, click here.