Lofts are ideal if you wish to save on floor space and if you have a home with high ceilings. If you wish to add a loft to your living room, it would be wise to check with your homeowners association and see whether the rules and regulation permit you to do so or not. You will also need a building permit from your city’s office. In most cases, this is not necessary although you would still want to inquire in order to be sure especially if your loft can be considered an extension of your living space. The help of an architect may also be needed, but if you wish to build a loft without the help of a professional, that would also be possible. Here are the steps into building a loft in your living room:


Step 1. The first and most important step into constructing a loft is to make a plan. Take the measurement of your available space and draw a design or blueprint. Once you’ve completed the plan, prepare the materials you are going to need for the project. Basically, you will need 4×4’s, 2×4’s, deck screws, ¾” plywood, nails, and joint braces. You will also need tools such as a hammer, a circular saw, a power drill or a screwdriver, and a measuring tape.

Step 2.  Construct the frame for your loft based on your drawing. Cut the 2×4’s first according to the length that you need. Assemble the 2×4’s with the help of deck screws, using a couple 2×4’s for the outermost part of the frame and one 2×4 for the crossmember. Attach the joint braces afterwards.

Step 3. When you’ve finished constructing the frame, hoist it in the air and attach the 4×4’s to secure it. Ask for assistance when doing this step to avoid injuries and other unwanted incidents. Once the frame is set in place, lay the plywood on top of it and attach it using deck screws.

Step 4. A loft is usually built between two walls to keep it sturdy. For additional security, add braces to each of the 4×4 posts that hold the frame. You can do this by cutting a diagonal section from your 2×4’s and screwing them to the posts to act as a brace.

Step 5. Depending on how you want your loft to be designed, you can either add spiral stairs into it or hang a rope ladder instead. You can also add drop down stairs if you wish to save more on space.

Step 6. To ensure the sturdiness of your newly constructed loft, check the screws for tightness.

Step 7. Depending on the size of your new loft and how much weight capacity it can hold, you can make it as an extension of your living room by adding a sofa set and other furniture and appliances. You can even convert it into an entertainment room complete with a television, stereo components, and even a video game console.