In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, Benjamin Hall, Founder and CEO of Loft, shares his inspiring journey from launching Loft with a £15,000 student loan in 2003 to growing it into a thriving company with over 100 employees and nearly £20 million in revenue. Loft has become a leader in transforming living experiences across student housing, build-to-rent, and co-living sectors.
Benjamin discusses the evolving terminology and design philosophy within the housing sector, emphasizing a shift from viewing residents as tenants to creating homes that prioritize their comfort and experience. Central to this transformation is the role of multifunctional, high-quality furniture, tailored to urban living. Sustainability is a key focus, with Loft integrating eco-friendly materials and digital asset tagging to manage furniture lifecycles and promote environmental responsibility.
The conversation delves into global trends in the living sector, contrasting the operational strengths of the US market with the community-driven designs found in European countries like Germany and the Netherlands. The UK market is highlighted as a blend of these styles, with an increasing trend toward uniformity in design across sectors, inspired by high-end interiors such as those of Soho House.
Benjamin also sheds light on the growing popularity of single-family housing and its commercial feasibility, noting that operators often prefer residents to furnish their own homes in this sector. He underscores the importance of brand identity, explaining how thoughtfully designed interiors can justify high rents while enhancing the resident experience.
As Loft continues to grow, Benjamin highlights the company’s commitment to social impact and environmental responsibility. With the launch of the Impactful Interiors collection, Loft is leading the charge in sustainable furniture design. Looking ahead, Loft is exploring opportunities for international expansion into markets such as Australia and the Middle East.
