But it's just when you're done hauling all your things in and are appreciating your cool new den that you notice that the beautifully exposed pipes are drooling onto your bed and that it's absolutely impossible to get anything to hang on your brick wall.

Getting a converted loft can be your admission ticket into the world of the artsy cool, but a focus on style can distract you from a slew of practical issues not to be overlooked.

First and foremost, remember that the room was not originally meant for humans to inhabit. Make sure the estate agent isn't only selling you location, but a quality renovation as well. If those fifteen-foot windows leak air from every corner you'll be spending a fortune on your heating bill in winter. The plumbing should be checked up on regularly, and the floor properly insulated. Because it's difficult to set an electrical system into brick walls, outlet availability could be problematic, so think ahead to where you intend placing your phone and computer.

Maximizing space is another tricky detail that could make or break your loft experience. Keep exact measurements of all your furniture to make sure your desk doesn't have to be sawed short to fit in. To create the illusion of more room many buyers try to keep the bathroom and kitchen spaces to a spartan minimum, as well as hanging large mirrors up (they're more than just kinky extras).

After a long and tiring day, your studio flat should help you relax and escape the pressure, not stress you out with unexpected insulation or plumbing nightmares. Keeping these few tips in mind when shopping around should help you find a converted loft which is not only stylish but liveable, as well.