Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Lofts, by definition, are former commercial spaces that have been converted for residential use and living/working environments. But lofts, by design, are vast silent expanses, soaring arches, stalwart steel girders, massive beams, and all the powerful drama of a curtain-time stage set. The importance of urban loft design for the architectural and design world is highlighted in this collection of the finest, most dramatic of these transformed spaces.

Reviews provided by Syndetics

Library Journal Review

Loft living began as an inexpensive way to gain large spaces in centrally located urban or industrial areas and eventually became an acceptable, even chic, living arrangement. Both of these books show the high end of loft living: large spaces that have been gutted of their original walls and fixtures and professionally planned by architects and interior designers. Molnar's book concentrates on New York lofts (although the latter part of the book shows lofts from around the United States and the world). The styles illustrated are modern and minimalistic. Vance's book concentrates on English lofts that almost resemble traditional homes in their design and arrangement. Both of these beautifully illustrated books will be excellent additions to professional and school collections and could be useful in urban public libraries where this style of living is available. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Booklist Review

Does a loft in Tokyo resemble the insides of Manhattan industrial spaces? The answer is yes, even though actual trappings will vary, depending on the owner. What Los Angeles writer Molnar explores through 200 color visuals are the similarities as well as the differences, with the greatest similarity being that creativity and imagination are mandatory for loft living. (And major bucks, too, for renovations and mortgages.) More than 30 former individual spaces are showcased, most in Manhattan; each credits the architect and his or her vision, includes the floor plan, and relies on photographs to tell the stories. Ignore the prose; this is a cachepot of incredible design ideas and treasured collections to drool over. Barbara Jacobs