Artist Studio

A simple form seeming to rise from the earth, the 250 square-foot space needed only to meet the humble needs of a sink, a counter, and space for painting easels. Designed for a San Mateo watercolor artist, the painting studio is supported through the sculptural rise of berming against the structure’s concrete foundation, with windows strategically placed to maximize the northern light necessary for watercolor painting. The butterfly roof supports the clerestory windows to the north while filtering direct sunlight from the south, and integrated photovoltaic solar panels power the studio. Rainwater drainage is extended out to nourish the wild, native Northern California landscape, and large bifold doors open up to connect the studio and native garden.

Year: 2011
Location: San Bruno, CA
Square Footage: 500
Typology: Artist Studio