Mevorach Studio Addition

The Mevorach Studio is an addition to an 1883 Victorian home situated in Des Moines, IA's historic Sherman Hill neighborhood. The challenge was twofold: integrating a modern addition into a historic context without mimicking vintage details and fulfilling the artistic and functional needs of the client, an internationally acclaimed artist who uses the space to work on projects and create exhibits. The studio needed to harmonize with the existing home, offer accessibility to the street, and provide a haven for the artist's creative endeavors.

To achieve a respectful contrast with the historic setting, the addition employs a minimalist design, using modern materials like concrete and glulam timber beams. Positioned northeast of the existing house, it features a concrete wall that contours the new space, offering both privacy and aesthetic appeal. The studio’s façade is intentionally closed, save for openings near the existing house, balancing intimacy with transparency. A striking light installation, designed by the owner, adorns the exterior corners facing the street, using LED screens to create a mesmerizing visual feature that operates around the clock. This nuanced architectural solution ensures that the Mevorach Studio seamlessly integrates into its historic surroundings while serving as an avant-garde hub for artistic innovation.