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That bonus room at the top of the stairs that’s been plaguing you? It’s more than an awkward hallway or a stair landing. It’s also not “just extra space.” If you’re lucky enough to have a loft, you’ve got what might be the most versatile (and overlooked) square footage in your home.
And while other blogs might point you toward inspiration that costs as much as a kitchen remodel, we’re keeping it grounded, with big reno-free ideas you can actually pull off using outlet-priced furniture and flexible layouts.
Whether you’re a couple, a roommate household, a new homeowner, or a serial rearranger who loves a good design refresh, here’s how to turn that upstairs loft into something so much better than storage.
Get inspired with these 7 fresh ideas.
Let’s be real: sometimes, you just need more space to hang out. Your main living room is great, but maybe it’s open to the kitchen (we hear you on the open-concept woes) or overrun with tech.
A loft gives you a chance to create a second vibe—calmer, quieter, or more design-forward.
Ready to go all in? Start with the big pieces first. Think a low-profile sofa or modular sectional, maybe in a darker tone or textured fabric to set it apart.
Then, add a contrasting pair of accent chairs (metal frame or mid-century wood) and a smaller coffee table for books, games, or drinks.
Use an area rug to define the space and bring in a console or sideboard that doesn’t feel like it belongs downstairs.
Outlet tip: CORT Furniture Outlet’s gently used sectionals, consoles, and accent chairs rotate weekly, so you can often score pieces that feel elevated without paying designer prices. Try mixing styles here—industrial chairs with a traditional sofa, or a glam lamp on a rustic table.
Forget the full bar buildout. You don’t need plumbing or a backsplash to create a place to unwind with friends. Just a good layout and a few intentional choices–and your favorites for the ultimate nightcap.
Look for a wide accent cabinet or sideboard—something with closed storage and a sturdy top. Stack your barware, mixers, and bottles here. If you want mobility, float a bar cart nearby.
Add two comfortable club chairs with a small table between them, or create a standing cocktail spot with high stools and a pub-height table.
Next, it’s time for light and art. Lean into mood. A plug-in sconce, a vintage lamp, or a matte black floor light sets the tone. Top it off with framed prints, record covers, or a gallery wall. Voila!
If you love the idea of a quiet corner to journal, decompress, or get lost in a book, your loft can become the perfect unplugged space.
Ready to build your reading room? Start with your seating and anchor pieces. A chaise lounge or oversized accent chair, a tall bookshelf, and a lightweight side table are all you need.
Add a textured rug, one big leafy plant, and a piece of oversized art to make it feel less like a pass-through and more like a statement. The key is restraint—this isn’t a room that needs filling. It needs quiet.
CORT Furniture Outlet often has beautiful one-off accent chairs and new or gently used bookcases that are perfect for small-space styling.
If your work-from-home setup is currently the kitchen table or a dark corner of the bedroom, the loft is prime real estate for your new office. It’s time to glow-up your setup.
Start with a ladder-style desk or a compact writing table—CORT Furniture Outlet frequently stocks styles with built-in shelves or drawers for added storage!
Pair it with an upholstered task chair that doesn’t look like it came from an office catalog, or go ergonomic. A tall bookcase or filing cabinet can divide the space if needed and keep you organized.
To separate work from relaxation, place a rug under your desk zone and let the rest of the loft function differently—for reading, lounging, or even a nap spot if you add a cozy chair or sofa.
If you have kids or regularly host nieces, nephews, or friends’ little ones, a loft can become the dreamiest kid zone and a great way to contain the rainbow-colored plastic explosion.
Juggling kids? We’ll keep this to the bullets.
Top it off with a washable rug, and add one cool feature just for fun—like a wall-hung chalkboard, tent, or gallery wall of their artwork.
A full gym might not fit in your top-of-the-stairs loft space, but a functional movement space absolutely can.
A padded storage bench can hold yoga blocks, weights, or resistance bands. Add a leaning mirror for form checks, a tall bookshelf for equipment, and a floor lamp for low, calming light. Don’t forget to leave floor space open for mats or stretching!
Not sure what to do in terms of color and artwork? Choose grounding colors—think grays, greens, or neutrals—and don’t underestimate a good scent diffuser.
Not every loft needs to be “neutral” or multi-use. If you’ve got a passion—photography, puzzles, painting, vinyl collecting—this space can be just for that. There’s no better way to start doing more of what you love than by making space for it.
To build a creative loft that’s all about your hobbies, start by carving out a dedicated table or workstation that suits your workflow—whether that’s crafting, collecting, or deep-focus projects.
A console table with drawers works especially well for keeping essentials close at hand without cluttering the surface. To expand your storage, bring in a tall cabinet or open shelf to house gear, display your work, or showcase tools and supplies in a way that feels intentional.
And don’t forget the walls—this is your space, so lean in with that vertical space. Pegboards, hooks, floating shelves, or even a full mood board can help you stay organized while making the area feel like your own creative headquarters.
At the end of the day, your loft isn’t just “extra space.” It’s the one part of your home that doesn’t already have an identity—and that’s the beauty of it. It can become exactly what you need, without anyone’s blueprint but your own.
And if you’re ready to stop wondering what to do with your loft space and start creating something that works for you, CORT Furniture Outlet is here to help. From stylish sectionals to desks, bookcases, decor, and accent lighting, our new and gently used outlet-priced pieces make functional design possible, without the markup.
Start your loft makeover today by shopping online or visiting your local CORT Furniture Outlet. What will you turn your upstairs space into?
