The clients are a husband and wife, both visual artists. One is a creative director and the other is an illustrator. They purchased a top floor unit, in need of substantial remodeling because of the work left behind on all surfaces by an artist with questionable talents. The clients wanted a flexible live-work space on a very tight budget when they approached us. The use in the unit is genuine live-work for two working visual artists.

Our proposal involved a 'super compaction' approach. Into this single-story loft, we dropped in a compressed structure designed to contain everything they required. A loft within a loft, or a "toy loft", as it were.

To meet this tight budget, we created a hybrid custom/IKEA shelving system, with light gauge steel framing, site-cut exposed edge plywood and mdf. This single shell contains an attic nook, a lower lounge, a rolling seasonal closet, bleachers with storage cubbies and a work surface, all interconnected to maximize their space.

The seasonal closet in particular, is a highlight we perfected in this unit. Based on a library shelf-rolling stack concept, it was built as a series of modules mounted on tracks that allowed a sliding maneuver, revealing occasionally used storage beyond. The clients can then slide these modules to configure as they please for both seasonal and his/ her needs. The cubby, workspace desk and bleacher steps are also tightly integrated to support both their freelance visual work needs and provide a flexible social space for entertainment.

Location

Arts District, Los Angeles, California

Year Completed

2014