Workshop
A dwelling which combines two core space principles – 'work' and 'live'.
The proposals idea of defining uses and connecting with the sites past was a direct response to the clients brief and guided by their passion for the Japanese Art of Sashiko (a decorative and practical stitching technique used to repair clothing and fabric).
Process
Concept
Perched within the slowly undulating Norfolk landscape – The Workshop is a unique response to a specific clients personality, space requirements and history of the site.
The idea was formed by the need to stitch the passions of the client, the proposed uses and the working agricultural past of the site. The form of the structure clearly defining the uses. Materials are used to create cohesion and symbiosis with the natural surroundings.
The floor plan arrangement is as equally unique as the appearance of the building — the dwelling is separated on half levels with integrated storage. The split levels allows a fluid connection between spaces, without the need for a contained stair or hallway. There is a clear line of sight from the upper workspace to the lower living area.
Large bespoke glazing allows for a seamless connection with the garden and the meadows surrounding the site.
Form
The form was directly derived from the historic structures on the site but arranged based on the proposed uses. One for living, connecting to the surrounding garden and one for working, with an elevated platform with views to the surrounding landscape.
Rather than merging the roof structures, the two forms are designed to appear as though they are abutted against one another. To create the appearance of two structures placed side by side, rather than as a singular form.
Materials
The proposal is clad entirely in Siberian Larch (applied to both the walls and the roof). All of the rainwater goods and services have been carefully positioned and designed to be hidden behind the external finish.
The untreated larch has been selected to allow the proposal to weather, creating a more natural appearance and allowing the dwelling to morph with the natural colourations of the surrounding landscape.
In order to create a minimal aesthetic all external rainwater goods, gutters and downpipes have been carefully concealed behind the weathered Siberian Larch facade.
