Artist Residence by the creek
Nestled along the quiet edge of a creek, this artist residence lives up to its name—both a home and a sanctuary for creative work. Designed for a couple of full-time artists, the project combines domestic life and artistic practice under one roof.
The main house serves as both living quarters and studio, oriented to capture soft eastern light. A continuous wall of glazing opens the interior to the creek, allowing the morning sun to flood the space and offering a constant dialogue with the natural surroundings.
Connected to the main house is a flexible garage and guest studio, accessible from both upper and lower levels, providing additional space for making, hosting, or retreat. The entire design prioritizes light, openness, and a direct relationship to the land—offering not only a place to live and work, but to be inspired.
Mid Century Modern
The building is designed with a shed roof inspired by mid-century aesthetics. Its sloped roofline echoes the silhouette of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Ground Level
The plan extended to the southern side, like an elbow, to capture daylight, and the living and entertainment areas sit on the south side, with bedrooms on the east and north sides all on the ground level.
Works and Arts
The second level features a spacious open studio for work and art display. An exterior sky deck links the studio to the guest apartment above the garage.
South and East
A prominent stone chimney anchors the main volume with rustic warmth, while tall vertical windows break up the façade and draw in filtered forest light. The guest house is thoughtfully recessed from the main residence, creating a sense of separation and retreat.
Massing Form
Asymmetrical massing creates a dynamic and visually engaging composition, avoiding symmetry while still achieving balance. The stepped main volume with solar panels and the simpler guest suite are unified by a connecting sky deck, creating a cohesive yet hierarchical massing composition.
Lights and Art
The art studio occupies the upper floor—a single, expansive open space designed for both creating and displaying work. The workstation is positioned at the east-facing window, offering a direct view of the creek. Generous glazing on the east and south sides fills the studio with natural light throughout the day.
