Located between two burgeoning neighborhoods, this private residence was once a gas station and mechanic shop. The existing structure is sited in a way that reinforces the urban edge and offers little privacy for a residence. Building on the previous design that included a private courtyard, the design goals included; greater connectivity to the courtyard, highlighting but refining the existing architecture, and creating open spaces that are flexible in use.
The open space that links the entry vestibule, kitchen, dining, and living area uses furnishings, cabinetry, and lighting to define space. Polished concrete floors throughout the project show reveal the existing character of the space and provide a grounded texture in contrast to the minimal modern approach. The neutral tones allow the owner’s furniture and art collection to become the focal points in the space.
Leading from the living area, there is a vestibule that serves two functions: one as a transition space from public to private, and two, as a focal point that connects the house to the courtyard. This space elevates common OSB to create a warm and refined space to display the owner’s vespas.
The main bedroom and bathroom are stitched together with a niche highlighted with a organge tile, and a color-changing linear LED that runs from one end of the bedroom to the far end of the bathroom. An existing steel framed window is clad with polycarbonate panels to provide borrowed daylight in the bathroom while maintaining privacy and acts a light installation on the living room side.
