PROGRAM: Eight three bedroom row houses on urban infill lot.
SOLUTION: The eight, 1,200 SF, dwellings in this development orient onto shared space, a mews or green. The residents collectively determine the use of the shared space: lawn, community garden, recreational area, et cetera. The use of the green may change as the occupants of the houses [or their life situations] change over time. The green is a reflection of the comprehensive situation of Baltimore: a microcosm of the greenways on streets such as North Broadway to the east. The macrocosm of the urban structure can be understood in the microcosm of the block.
The individual dwellings reflect the theme of the block and the principle of Gestaltung, in the sense of purposiveness, logic of construction, and handling of materials. Each has an open common focal space. The dwellings are 24’ by 24’ by 25’6 foot cubical volumes; they are compact and economical shapes. The design is open and loft-like. The intention is to utilize mass produced furniture in lieu of built-in closets, cabinets, and storage to create flexibility of use. This solution accommodates a variety of cohabitation arrangements and provides an open flexible area for living, dining, and entertaining. The ceiling height is intentionally kept low, 7’6” in the entry, kitchen, and bedrooms, and 15’-6” in the living area; this creates both efficiency and drama.
View Original