Our client, a writer, purchased the existing one-room studio building as a retreat for writing and quiet reflection. Just a few steps away from the beach and from the historic town center, the tiny home was an ad hoc arrangement of small, dark spaces of varying floor levels. The majority of the structure did not meet current setback ordinances. As such, our client’s program goals needed to be achieved within the existing building envelope, as any modifications to the size or location of the house would not comply with local codes.  

In order to make the home feel as large as possible within this tiny footprint, we envisioned the Studio as a lens, a space that could gather and concentrate light. Tall glass folding doors dominate the north elevation of the studio, which flood the space with diffuse sunlight and, when fully open, merge the home’s interior with its expansive front garden, effectively doubling the living area. Soft north light is balanced with direct light that enters through a skylight running the length of the studio on its south side, creating a play of shadows and reflections in the space that change throughout the day. Clerestory windows following the contour of the shed roof form allow more light to enter on the east and west sides while maintaining privacy from adjacent neighbors.

Materials, colors, and details were carefully selected and designed to create a calming, subdued experience free of visual noise and distractions. Economy and sustainability were achieved via reuse of the existing foundation and envelope framing; building systems upgrades maximize energy efficiency, and once established, the new drought-tolerant garden will require minimal irrigation. 

The tiny home offers its owner a contemplative, holistic living experience; in her own words, she takes care of it, and it takes care of her.