Architect’s home studio: Getting back to where it all started
With COVID-19 measures leading A’Bear & Ball Architects LLP to work remotely, Damon Ball, co-founder of the Practice, is getting back to where it all began in his home studio. The studio was built in 2015, and we used this space as our Practice’s first office for just over a year.
The studio was a catalyst to start our business in 2016 and helped us have lower overheads when we first started. Now, Damon is temporarily working from the space again as he focuses on design work, drawing production and collaborating with other staff members and fellow consultants remotely.
A modern self-build project
Damon is a DIY enthusiast and embarked on his own self-build where he implemented innovative and cost-effective design solutions. Him and his wife’s contemporary self-build project completed in 2015 and was featured on the cover of Self Build & Design magazine’s December 2016 issue.
The studio and associated landscaping part of the project was built to a tight budget of £15k. This was a more affordable option when compared to many off-the-shelf solutions. And by designing the space themselves, they were able to make the studio fit their specific wants and needs. The modern design makes for a clean, attractive and distraction-free space to work.
As a heavily insulated timber-framed structure, the studio is clad externally with stained timber and is complimented by a large format glazed screen and powder coated aluminium bi-fold doors. This provides a transparent relationship with the landscaping, while the opening areas of glazing allow the space to spill out onto the terrace. Sensitive lighting and a water feature create a peaceful and tranquil environment to work in, making for the perfect home studio.
Flexible, adaptable space
The studio has also served for multiple uses, proving to be a very flexible and versatile space. Over the years since the structure was built, Damon has used it as a music room, children’s play area and extra-use space. Having flexible space in your home can help you adapt to whatever life or career changes come your way.
When the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown is over, it is probable that more people will continue to work from home. This type of studio could thus become a popular choice, providing a comfortable, flexible and relaxed space to work from, while also being more affordable than what’s typically sold off-the-shelf.
With A’Bear & Ball Architects’ first-hand experience and passion for self-build projects, the Practice can help you with a full range of architectural services from conception to construction and handover. Please contact us if you’d like to learn more about how we can help you with your project.
