Formerly an unfinished basement in a 1911 Washington, DC residence, the transformation of this cellar space into a multi-use playroom, office, and laundry relies heavily upon defining zones of usage.  By organizing and integrating storage units into volumes, the remaining space resolves into an open and flowing plan.

This ‘swiss army knife’ approach allows this busy family of four to quickly mask the clutter and mess of everyday life.  When entertaining, they are able to draw full-height, in-line sliding doors across the children’s craft and homework area and across mom’s office desk. Treating the formerly damp space with a new bead board wood ‘liner’ allows for the integration of insulation and perimeter drainage while allowing the existing stone foundation walls to remain exposed above the grade line.  Ceiling height was maximized by rerouting mechanical, electrical, and plumbing into a central line tucked above the main volume.  

The existing joists were painted, but otherwise left exposed and up-lit to further the lofty, bright feel.  Custom millwork, resilient cork flooring and a copper-tile gas fireplace create a cozy family center for films and fun.

The garage conversion is the second in a multi-phase renovation of a 1911 residence in Chevy Chase, DC. The re-imagined ‘garage’ centers around spatial efficiency, making way for new uses that include a gameroom, clubhouse, playroom, and support space for the surrounding paved terrace.  

A thickened rear wall condenses storage into a single shelving and cabinetry unit. An integral fold-out bed allows for the garage to transform into a private guest suite.

A loft atop the storage volume provides a private reading nook. Stone pavers from the yard extend from outside in, creating a pavilion-like setting for the garage.

Multi-panel operable doors enhance a seamless material transition between interior and exterior. High dormer windows and a skylight draw light deep into the space. Painted wood siding and copper panel roof share character with materials of the existing house, creating a setting complementary to the existing house for family activities, indoor and outdoor alike.