The long cherished wish of a private painting studio became reality in the backyard. An unsightly shed grew to a light studio with attic. The side walls of the barn remained as wit-nesses for those who couldn’t believe this would be possible.
After renovating the house and garden, there was a simple shed waiting for a destination. At first glance, it offered little possibilities: it was small, did not have any insulation nor foundation and a leaking roof. In addition, the function as a storage space had to be re-tained. Even though, by replacing the roof and one of the facades for a light wooden vol-ume, enough space was created to carry out the owner’s business - giving painting work-shops - at home.
By building on the existing shed, a studio with attic could be realized within a limited budget. Through the sophisticated detailing, the conservative local requirements are united with the desire to add an elegant building to the cluttered sea of sheds.
Co-creation
The clients have worked intensively with the project. Many design sessions have taken place at the kitchen table. The youngest son of the client made a model of the preliminary draft. A brother in law made a new stained glass window. Neighbours have been consulted early and expressed a positive attitude about the extra quality and possibilities introduced by the plan.
Transformation
It has been chosen to leave 3 of the 4 walls of the barn. Within these limits a new wooden volume has been raised. The half-stone masonry is maintained, which expresses the rela-tionship between old and new. The planks and slats of preserved wood give depth and rhythm to the simple volume.
All-electric
The interior is finished with multiplex plates in which led lights, rails for paintings and an infrared radiation panel are embedded. The floor is equipped with electric underfloor heat-ing and the tap water is heated with an electric boiler. With this the studio is all-electric and energy efficient.
Future
The attic is spacious enough to function as storage space and retreat at the same time. A tree in the garden offers privacy and a pleasant view through the dormer. The design took into account the option of expanding the studio later on with a bathroom. It can then serve as a tiny house for one of the sons or as a custody house for a future owner.
The project shows how unexpected possibilities can be added to the backyard with modest means.
Material Used :
1. Platowood - preserved fire wood
2. Magnum - X-treme control, floor heating
3. Prestyl - infrared heating panel
