Drawing Agency undertook the conversion of a two-bedroom mid-century apartment in Upper Manhattan, transforming it into the Harlem Studio, a dynamic live/work space tailored for two artists. By leveraging the apartment’s existing features, the studio fosters seamless integration between living and working environments while maximizing spatial efficiency.
Adaptive Design Approach
Retaining the apartment’s original layout, Drawing Agency opted for minimal alterations, intervening only where necessary. Strategic modifications to the “back-of-house” storage assets facilitated the creation of a shared studio space, hallway gallery, and interconnected living areas. Demolition was limited, with a focused effort on enhancing functionality while preserving the apartment’s intrinsic character.
Enhancing Natural Light
Capitalizing on the apartment’s west-facing windows, the design harnesses natural light to accentuate the space. Sculptural additions complement the original unit’s features, infusing social areas with vibrant colors and dynamic elements. Strong vertical accents create visual interest, while sliding doors optimize circulation and facilitate the movement of artwork and equipment.
Innovative Solutions
In response to structural constraints, such as an existing chase obstructing daylight in the kitchen, Drawing Agency implemented creative solutions. The “Big Wall” was sculpted to accommodate essential utilities, seamlessly integrating functional elements with aesthetic considerations. Similarly, in the living room, the Long Bookshelf serves as a multifunctional element, offering storage and framing picturesque views of the Hudson River.
Preservation and Modernization
A central tenet of the studio’s design philosophy was the preservation of existing materials wherever possible. Drawing Agency adopted a surgical approach, modernizing select elements while respecting the apartment’s heritage. Utilizing a restrained palette of plywood, homasote, and aluminum, the studio achieves a harmonious balance between contemporary aesthetics and historical authenticity.
By embracing the apartment’s inherent qualities and implementing thoughtful interventions, Harlem Studio exemplifies Drawing Agency’s commitment to adaptive design, creating a versatile space tailored to the creative pursuits of its inhabitants.
