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Loft Guidelines

Many students decide to construct a loft in order to better utilize the space in a room. A loft is basically created by raising a bed off of the floor in such a manner so that the space under it can be utilized (for storage, a couch, a desk, etc). Students (and parents) have gotten quite creative when constructing lofts. PSU does not provide any plans for lofts .... but does provide an outline of basic guidelines which must be followed in their construction. Once constructed, the student needs to fill out a loft contract with their Residence Director and the loft will be inspected for compliance with PSU standards (for safety). It should also be noted that any furniture assigned to a student's room must remain in the room (we do not have storage facilities for room furniture). As a result it's recommended that the design of the loft somehow incorporate the existing bed into the construction. The specific PSU loft guidelines follow on the next page. These guidelines are the basis which the loft contract is designed around. Any questions not answered in the guideline section should be referred to the Residential Life office or the student's Residence Director.

PSU does not provide plans for building lofts but we have noticed over the years that parents and students are quite creative.  It is important to note that all furnishings must remain in the room (we have very limited storage space).

The following guidelines should be observed when planning and constructing a loft.  A "loft contract" must be signed with the Residence Director of the building.

1.  Loft assembly must only be done between the hours of 10am and 8pm.

2.  The residents of the room assume full responsibility for any damages to the room caused by the loft construction project. Furthermore, the University assumes no responsibility or liability for any injuries to occupants of the room or their guests as a result of the loft being in place.

3.  Lofts must be located and constructed in such a way that they do not interfere with, or obstruct access to, windows, plumbing, heating units, telephones, life-safety equipment, and the exit / entrance to the room.

4.  Lofts are to be free-standing. Bolts, nails, or other items are not to be attached to the wall, ceiling, or floor to support the loft.

5.  Room furnishings and fixtures (lights, electrical outlets, desks, closets, heating units, etc.) may not be removed, altered, or relocated as a result of the loft construction project.

6.  Lofts are to be completely dismantled and removed from the room when the occupant vacates the room or by a time specified by the Residence Director (usually before finals week quiet hours begin in the spring semester).

7.  A minimum of 24 inches must exist from the top surface of the loft sleeping area to the ceiling.

8.  No loft construction project may be completed without adherence to these guidelines. The constructed loft shall be inspected and approved by an authorized residence hall staff member.

Happy building!