690 SF; Completed in 2006

Converting this detached residential garage made a creative studio environment where great architectural collaboration takes place. The main entry, opening onto a residential alley, is sheltered with a recycled car windshield awning. Inside, the perimeter of the open studio is defined by jogs in the exterior wall into four work stations, a conference area, a printing / server area, and a kitchenette. The vaulted ceiling is supported with site-fabricated steel scissors trusses, and the extended roof eaves shade multiple windows and a triangular clerestory. Reclaimed clear wood trim is highlighted against the creamy unpainted plaster walls.

Multiple windows, clerestories and solar tubes wash the interiors with daylight. In the new structure, framed with sustainable FSC-certified lumber, reclaimed wood doors were milled to fit the new openings. A recycled car windshield protects the entry. The flooring is laminated bamboo, while interior casework and trim are reclaimed Doug-Fir and straw board. The unpainted plaster walls are coated with Non-VOC glazing and the woodwork is treated with natural plant-derived oils. A night-flush ventilation system includes a thermostat-controlled fan, a high roof exhaust and a low fresh air wall inlet, eliminating the need for cooling. This structure which once housed cars is now a zero-commute home office.