Designer offers decorating tips

Michael Habachy remembers his parents' reaction the first time they visited his one level, industrial style flat at Hastings Seed Lofts on Marietta Street.

"My parents were like, what in the hell are you doing," Habachy recalls, laughing. "It looked like a concrete attic."

But the imposing concrete columns, aged brick walls, exposed ducts and large open living space were the very features he found attractive when he purchased the loft a couple of years ago.

Decorating it was liberating for Habachy, an interior designer who specializes in upscale residential and commercial properties, because it gave him a canvas to use sleek, contemporary furnishings in a gritty, architectural setting.


"I wanted to blend the historical character of an old industrial building with modern design," he says. "I try to keep things really minimal and simple."

Here are some things to consider, he recommends, when decorating a loft:

SCALE

"Scale can be the height of the space as well as the amount of space you have between chairs and sofas," he says. For example, "in lofts, you can get away with a chunkier table that fills the area."

FURNITURE

Choose pieces that accentuate the height of the room and that look good from all angles, so they can float in a room instead of being placed against a wall.

"It's nice to have some furniture that looks architectural," Habachy says, "then make a couple of pieces the brat pieces — the ones that are going to get a lot attention."

FRAMED ART AND OBJECTS

Consider using large sculptures as focal points, and hanging oversized framed pieces to make an impact. Or, cluster smaller pieces together to make one large focal point.

"I personally like large accent pieces more than knick-knacky pieces," he says. "The funny thing is, I grew up around a lot of knick-knacks. It drove me nuts."

DIVIDING LINES

Many lofts, particularly authentic ones built in old warehouses, don't have interior walls. But you can create a visual separation with screens or architectural partitions made out of wood and translucent materials.

"If you can partition off the bedroom it would be to your advantage, especially if there's more than one person who shares the space," Habachy advises. Rugs are another way to define or frame an area.

GALLEY KITCHENS

Keep them clutter free. When possible, stash small appliances and other counter clutter.

"One thing I like to do in a kitchen that makes it more minimal and sleek is reposition the outlets," he says. "I put them under the cabinets in power strips, so no one can see them. That way, you can get a beautiful backsplash."

WINDOWS

Like many loft dwellers, Habachy likes naked windows that let in plenty of light without compromising his privacy. For clients who prefer window treatments, he suggests architectural ripple fold drapes hung ceiling to floor.

FLOORING

Nothing warms a loft like heavily textured rugs, such as thick shag or fur. Although wall-to-wall carpet is an option, think twice before covering the floors completely. Hardwoods or concrete add to the character of the home.

PAINT

When choosing colors, include ducts in the mix. Habachy painted his a soft taupe to tone down the glaring metal. "It doesn't look so loud and harsh," he explains.