This Architectural Designer’s Secret to Transforming Her “Basic” Loft Is Stylish Budget-Conscious Choices

published Aug 19, 2025

This Architectural Designer’s Secret to Transforming Her “Basic” Loft Is Stylish Budget-Conscious Choices

published Aug 19, 2025

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About this tour

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Home Type

Loft

Location

Hancock Park, Los Angeles, California

Style

Bohemian

Minimal

Scandinavian

Bedrooms

Square feet

650

Sq ft

650

This 650-square-foot loft in Los Angeles’ Hancock Park neighborhood was plain, empty, and generic, according to architectural designer Daria Yang DU when she moved in six months ago, explaining that it was “just a basic white-walled loft with no personality or warmth.”

Credit: Daria Yang DU

"I DIYed a custom work desk by combining IKEA table legs with a Home Depot-cut wood top to perfectly fit my creative needs," she writes about her proudest DIY. "I also styled the entire space myself on a tight budget — selecting, assembling, and arranging all the furniture and decor to reflect both function and personality."

This was actually the first “fully realized built interior project” that Daria has completed, and it’s not just her home, it’s her creative studio, too. “This project is a case study in accessible, self-initiated interior design for solo female living — demonstrating how design can be both personal and practical without compromising aesthetics,” she writes.

Credit: Daria Yang DU

Though the space is small, the double-height unit offers lots of natural light and tall ceilings, making it feel larger than it is. The loft also came with warm-colored wood floors, and Daria chose a color palette that includes white walls and natural textures to embrace a feeling of spaciousness. A cute patio area helps make the home feel larger than the actual square footage.

Credit: Daria Yang DU

“Drawing inspiration from Scandinavian simplicity, the design integrates budget-conscious choices with thoughtful spatial composition,” writes Daria, who says her home reflects that she’s a creative, independent woman and designer.

Credit: Daria Yang DU

When asked about her best decorating, shopping, cleaning, or organizing advice, Daria's answer was simple yet direct: "IKEA IVAR series."

“My home reflects that through its thoughtful blend of function and personality — neutral tones with warm textures, budget-friendly pieces styled with intention, original artwork, and a custom work area that supports both everyday living and creative practice. It’s a space that feels calm, expressive, and entirely my own.”