This Loft’s Cool 12-Foot High Open Bookshelf Divider Cost Under $500 to Build

Name: Bronte Athearn and partner, Jordan
Location: Los Angeles, California
Type of home: Loft
Size: 1,200 square feet
Years lived in: 4 months, renting

Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: Last summer, my partner, Jordan, and I bought a van, then decided to leave Los Angeles for six months. We explored 32 states and dozens of National Parks, and had fallen completely in love with this new way of life. We eventually found ourselves in Brooklyn. We considered staying in New York, but ultimately, with our work, we realized Los Angeles would be home for now. (Jordan is a filmmaker, and I’m an interior stylist.)

We finally made our way back to Los Angeles, and the apartment hunt began! We toured at least 10 apartments before stumbling across a loft we found on Craigslist. The moment we walked in, we immediately fell in love with its character and charm. It has tall windows, brick walls, 12-foot ceilings, original hardwood, and even a wood-burning fireplace. I knew this would be the perfect canvas for me to play with.

I love neutral tones with pops of green (hence my very green kitchen that I painted myself.) I also love using natural elements when it comes to styling: rocks, leathers, woods, linens, and lots and lots of plants. I actually ended up styling with items I found on the road.

What is your favorite room and why? The living room! I designed a 12-foot high open bookshelf that divides the bedroom and living room. Instead of building walls, I wanted to keep the loft/studio vibe, so I went with this alternative, and I love how it came out. Jordan’s dad is an amazing carpenter and built it for us for under $500!

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Lived-in modern

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? A few favorites are our vintage cane dining chairs from Urban Americana, all our Danish furniture from Saasaan Vintage, and our super breathable cozy bedding from Dazed But Amazed.

Any advice for creating a home you love? For fellow renters my advice is this: Find a way to enhance what already exists in your home by asking yourself: How can I make this more special? Remember, less is more.

This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.

Share Your Style: House Tour & House Call Submission Form