It’s been a great debate among homeowners for years: loft vs. additional bedroom. No matter which one you ultimately choose, the fact of the matter is that you crave more space. This could be because your family is growing and you need to accommodate more kids in more rooms. Or maybe your needs are changing. Your kids may be getting older and may want their own space and privacy. Perhaps you’re an empty nester and finally get to install that music room/craft room/movie theater you’ve always wanted.
Whatever the case may be, you need extra space. Both a loft and an additional bedroom can achieve that goal, but you will need to measure the pros and cons of each option to fit your unique lifestyle needs.
Loft
The Pros:
- Lofts are great as community spaces, such as game rooms with arcade games and a pool table, or as a TV room or movie theater that all guests can enjoy.
- Lofts are expansive spaces that can be used for one sole purpose or for several, with different zones created to accommodate various needs.
- Lofts are usually centrally located so you can keep an eye on the kids.
- Lofts are less expensive to create than an extra bedroom because you don’t have to pay for closets and walls.
- Lofts can feature additional sleeping accommodations for guests such as pull-out couches that can be folded away when the common area is needed.
The Cons:
- Lofts don’t give as much privacy as bedrooms, as there are no walls, closets or nooks.
- Sounds tend to carry more in lofts, as there are no walls to contain noise. Thus, lofts aren’t as great for home offices or libraries where privacy and quiet are necessary.
- You can’t count a loft as an additional bedroom, which will lower your home’s resale value.
Additional Bedroom
The Pros:
- You can use a bedroom for any purpose, just like you can a loft (home office or kids’ playroom for instance)
- The door can be closed for privacy or to conceal messes. This is ideal in the case of a guest bedroom where your visitors can enjoy their own separate sleeping area that can be closed off.
- Second bedrooms add more value to your home if you plan to resell.
The Cons:
- Bedrooms aren’t as easily seen from all areas of the house, making supervision of small children more difficult.
- They aren’t as comfortable when used as a den, TV room, game room or movie theater, as most family members and guests are drawn to open spaces when congregating.
- Second bedrooms cost more to add, due to the closets, walls, and possible plumbing needed for an adjoining bathroom.
Now that you know the pros and cons of lofts vs. second bedrooms, are you still unsure which one you prefer? You’ll have to consider factors like who will be using the space, for how long, the privacy level needed, the intended usage, and more.
Contact AD Construction
Our South End builders would be happy to provide a free consultation at your home to discuss your needs and plans, ultimately helping you decide on a loft vs. a bedroom. We are skilled in the construction of both types of additions and conversions. Contact us today at 877-345-BUILD to get started.
