lake

Designed to accommodate the unique program requirements of an architectural design x steel fabrication studio, this project is intended to celebrate the distinction between old and new.

The original 1900’s solid-brick building was stripped to its shell, creating towering 18’ ceiling heights, ideal for steel fabrication. In order to accommodate the required office function, a new corten steel-clad addition was added in front of the existing structure, sleeved over the brick facade, complementing it in material and proportion. Where these volumes overlap, a mezzanine provides flexible meeting/game/kitchenette space with sightlines to the workshop and studio below.

Careful attention was given to preserving the integrity of the original masonry façade. Intentionally celebrating the brickwork at the cornice and openings, the new addition slips past, and just below the top of the historic structure, veiling and framing the existing arched window behind a new one, drawing attention to the moment of overlap. Within the addition, the new ceiling skylight spans wall to wall, visually distinguishing the old structure from new, while inviting daylight to wash the beautifully-restored, and previously street-facing facade with afternoon sun.

In all, the design aims to balance both past and present in visual clarity.