In this full renovation of a late 1800’s former horse stable, the building has been transformed into a classic shop-house complete with studio on the first floor and living quarters on the second floor.

The rear yard addition was completed in 2016 and serves as an expansion to the living quarters to accommodate a growing family.

The rear garden is completely enclosed, buffered in the back by the solid three-story brick wall of the city archive building.

The studio is a void set back from the alley by an interstitial zone, separating entrances for work and home.

First Floor Plan

Second Floor Plan

Mezzanine Plan

Roof Plan

The long partner desk is designed for collaboration and accommodates a growing professional team.

A view towards the private residence entry.

Historic details underlie the contemporary interventions.

A narrow volume containing stairs and storage frames the interior, creating a buffer to the residence.

A skylight above the stairs brings light to both levels.

Structural reinforcement in the ceiling is accentuated with a series of coves, defining the public area.

Private functions are tucked into a central volume that pulls away from the original walls to allow space to flow freely.

These interior spaces 'borrow' light from the primary skylight above the stair.

Light from the skylight enters the powder room through a transom.

The master bedroom area has no enclosing walls, preserving the openness that the original footprint provides.

The narrow master bath is contained within the central column. Its design incorporates ample storage, and its materials promote lightness.

A pocket door connects the baby’s room with the master suite without disturbing the columnar programming.

Between the primary space and prospective addition lies a ‘secret garden,’ a green space contained within built boundaries.

With the 2016 addition, the 'secret garden' has become a 'secret courtyard'

Peeking above garden wall

Large operable doors allow for seamless flow to the existing garden, now transformed into a courtyard

Playrooom and guest space are accommodated in a single room and adjacent bath on the First Floor

Playrooom and guest space are accommodated in a single room and adjacent bath on the First Floor

Playrooom and guest space are accommodated in a single room and adjacent bath on the First Floor

Playrooom and guest space are accommodated in a single room and adjacent bath on the First Floor

Playrooom and guest space are accommodated in a single room and adjacent bath on the First Floor

Playrooom and guest space are accommodated in a single room and adjacent bath on the First Floor

The Second Floor features bedroom, full bath and a mezzanine above

The 'secret courtyard' is the new center for family play and leisure

The studio opens its doors to the public regularly.

Alley life.