Jan 06 Loft Profile
Loft Profile
LaFrance Lofts
This month I had the opportunity to interview Mark S. who lives at the LaFrance Street lofts. Mark has lived in this warehouse conversion since December 2004, and was the first person to occupy the recently converted unit. When looking at other lofts he checked out Glen Iris lofts as well as a few locations in midtown and Castleberry Hill.
What made the LaFrance Street development stand out was that it was a “new†complex in an “old†building. That meant that while retaining its authentic industrial feel it had all new plumbing, cabinetry, electric, doors, windows, etc. The quality of the recent conversion assured no headaches with mechanical issues or problems that might result from a history of use as a rental property. He also likes the location with its proximity to Little Five Points.
Mark heard about the LaFrance Street development while it was under construction from a friend who is a former architect student. The friend recommended the development, saying that it would be amazing once finished. Mark is satisfied with his friend’s recommendation, noting that the development recently won a Design of Excellence Award from the Atlanta Urban Design Commission.
Where did you get ideas on furniture and materials for decorating your place?
“I’ve always been creative in all areas of my life–and many of my interior design ideas just came naturally. One of my biggest challenges was picking my color palette. I decided to make orange a primary color to really brighten up the space, and I knew that color on one of my concrete walls would really enhance the texture. I chose grays, whites, purples, and a soft green as accent colors. As for furniture, I definitely wanted furniture that was airy and metal, as well as light beech wood chairs to match the kitchen cabinets. Given the concrete elements in my place, the metal was a perfect complement, and the wood adds a natural element. The centerpiece of my space is definitely my DJ console, a custom-designed solid block that fits my turntables, CD mixer, and other DJing equipment. I painted it orange as well, and there are three light boxes on the front, so it really stands out in the living space. Another question people ask is where I found my poster hangers–and it’s always funny to say that I made them myself with stuff from Home Depot! Just some chain, clamps, and aluminum rods. If one thinks outside the box, you can be very resourceful with the things you find–and the complements you will receive. Lighting is also very important–adding some spotlights and dimmers has made a tremendous difference to highlight different areas. Candles also really enhance the mood of my place.â€
How does your loft fit your lifestyle?
“The entire concept of my loft was to make it into more of a lounge instead of a “home”. I even named it “Remark Central” after my DJ alter ego. I wanted a space that was definitively me–clean and modern, yet fun and festive. Music is the primary theme–I do not own a television, and although I have a projector, it shows art images over the DJ console. Music is always playing in some form or fashion. My space serves to be a major social gathering spot. I love having friends over to enjoy wine and music, and about every two months or so I tend to have rather extravagant parties that always prove to be a good time. As for the commute to work, it’s not so bad. I work in Buckhead and can get there in about 25 to 30 minutes with traffic. I am very close to the interstate though, so getting places isn’t really a problem. And being near Candler Park, Little Five Points, Decatur, and Midtown allows for plenty of nearby socializing. All in all, I couldn’t be more satisfied with where I am located in the city. It’s been truly amazing living here.â€
Loft Profile
LaFrance Lofts
This month I had the opportunity to interview Mark S. who lives at the LaFrance Street lofts. Mark has lived in this warehouse conversion since December 2004, and was the first person to occupy the recently converted unit. When looking at other lofts he checked out Glen Iris lofts as well as a few locations in midtown and Castleberry Hill.
What made the LaFrance Street development stand out was that it was a “new†complex in an “old†building. That meant that while retaining its authentic industrial feel it had all new plumbing, cabinetry, electric, doors, windows, etc. The quality of the recent conversion assured no headaches with mechanical issues or problems that might result from a history of use as a rental property. He also likes the location with its proximity to Little Five Points.
Mark heard about the LaFrance Street development while it was under construction from a friend who is a former architect student. The friend recommended the development, saying that it would be amazing once finished. Mark is satisfied with his friend’s recommendation, noting that the development recently won a Design of Excellence Award from the Atlanta Urban Design Commission.
Where did you get ideas on furniture and materials for decorating your place?
“I’ve always been creative in all areas of my life–and many of my interior design ideas just came naturally. One of my biggest challenges was picking my color palette. I decided to make orange a primary color to really brighten up the space, and I knew that color on one of my concrete walls would really enhance the texture. I chose grays, whites, purples, and a soft green as accent colors. As for furniture, I definitely wanted furniture that was airy and metal, as well as light beech wood chairs to match the kitchen cabinets. Given the concrete elements in my place, the metal was a perfect complement, and the wood adds a natural element. The centerpiece of my space is definitely my DJ console, a custom-designed solid block that fits my turntables, CD mixer, and other DJing equipment. I painted it orange as well, and there are three light boxes on the front, so it really stands out in the living space. Another question people ask is where I found my poster hangers–and it’s always funny to say that I made them myself with stuff from Home Depot! Just some chain, clamps, and aluminum rods. If one thinks outside the box, you can be very resourceful with the things you find–and the complements you will receive. Lighting is also very important–adding some spotlights and dimmers has made a tremendous difference to highlight different areas. Candles also really enhance the mood of my place.â€
How does your loft fit your lifestyle?
“The entire concept of my loft was to make it into more of a lounge instead of a “home”. I even named it “Remark Central” after my DJ alter ego. I wanted a space that was definitively me–clean and modern, yet fun and festive. Music is the primary theme–I do not own a television, and although I have a projector, it shows art images over the DJ console. Music is always playing in some form or fashion. My space serves to be a major social gathering spot. I love having friends over to enjoy wine and music, and about every two months or so I tend to have rather extravagant parties that always prove to be a good time. As for the commute to work, it’s not so bad. I work in Buckhead and can get there in about 25 to 30 minutes with traffic. I am very close to the interstate though, so getting places isn’t really a problem. And being near Candler Park, Little Five Points, Decatur, and Midtown allows for plenty of nearby socializing. All in all, I couldn’t be more satisfied with where I am located in the city. It’s been truly amazing living here.â€
