Located in a historic cultural arts district, this project included not
only the renovation of a completely fire damaged interior, but a
historical restoration of the exterior urban façade.This project is a hybrid space, functioning as both a fine art
gallery and an architecture studio, which informs the architectural
strategy. A glass storefront meets the urban streetscape denoting the
entrance to the art gallery while displaying current exhibits to
passers by. Opposite the storefront, a private, rear entrance is
utilized by the architecture studio.Inside, spaces overlap ephemerally in plan and section.
A conference table sits amidst a sectional void linking entry and upper
levels. When utilized by the architecture studio, retractable shades
lower to enclose this space from the surrounding gallery. Above,
library and studio spaces are linked by a bridge whose glass handrails
provide continuous views to the gallery below. Across from the bridge a
“window” provides a glimpse of the adjacent connected building,
reinforcing the projects position within an urban context. The architecture serves as a sampling of the materials,
techniques, details, and effects typically deployed by the architecture
studio. The monolithic wood veneer wall emphasizes the connection
between entry and upper levels. Ceiling planes drop and intersect to
articulate intimate spaces while creating recessed light coves above.2006 Merit Award, American Institute of Architects, Cleveland Chapter
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