Studio 6240 – A Backyard Addition Serves as a Living Space, Garage and Future Home

This boxy little structure has been designed by the studio Robert M. Gurney Architect. It’s been built for a client based in Washington, and was completed in 2018.

 

The structure serves two main functions – to act as a car garage and as a studio that services the main residence. Sarah Mailhot, an architect at Robert Gurney, took the helm with the design and development of the project.

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The building is composed of a 560-square-foot (52.02-square-meter) space and has a rough split of 40/60 between the garage and the studio. The project was dubbed “Studio 6420” by the architects, and can be found in the rear garden of a much larger residence.

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While its primarily intended to serve as a garage and studio, the building also serves another less obvious purpose. It separates the rear garden (and it’s pool) from a “gritty public alley”. In that sense, it’s a glorified fence, providing privacy for the occupants of the main home.

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Thanks to the enclosure of the garden, it takes on a courtyard-like feel: “The new structure combines with the main residence to provide a private “courtyard” type space where the swimming pool and terrace are located.”

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On the inside, the studio is a light and breezy space, finished in a contemporary aesthetic. It’s a simple set up, with most of it being dedicated to a living area/work-space. The remainder is largely taken up by a small bathroom to the back, and a chimney structure which accommodates natural and mechanical ventilation.

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After the projects completion, it was decided the garage wasn’t required. It was subsequently converted to a living space by the owner’s son.

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For more studios check out this architects studio by Duo Attic Lab, create built their own creative hub. Or, Gazebo, a light and airy addition to a summer home in Moscow. See all studios.

Photos © Anice Hoachlander

Niall Burke

Structural engineer by day, tiny house designer by night. Niall has a keen interest in small spaces, green design, and sustainability. He started developing Humble Homes while studying for his masters degree in engineering. He is the founder and managing editor of Humble Homes.