Being an artist or a designer means living in a place that can accommodate our huge workload. And by workload, it includes a sufficient space for working and for storing the various paraphernalia that we use for our work. But what if our apartment is just a little box that seems to have little or no provision for such requirement?
Israel-based architect Raanan Stern was posed with such challenge when he designed a 15-square meter apartment for an artist in Tel Aviv. Expanding the space was not an option as the unit is located inside a concrete building and two of the walls are windows in this four-walled apartment. The result? A smart and unusual solution incorporating two work desks, modular storages, around 36 drawers, and display walls for pegs and moods. Not only that, Stern was also able to fit in a folding bed within the artist’s humble abode.
Storage Solutions
According to Stern, the owner of the apartment likes to create and collect different art pieces, most of which are 2D. Aside from that, the artist also has a collection of books, sculptures and other curios dating back to 1940s up to present. In order to accommodate these items, Stern created different types of storage systems in different sizes to store old and new pieces.
Stern’s team took measurements of the objects that will be stored or displayed. They were able to create four categories based on how frequently the item is used, if it’s for storage or for display. In addition, Stern assigned a color category for the items which are easily identifiable for the artist. Smaller sections of the storage system can also be removed from their larger units so that the artist can place it on the table while working.
Workspace
The design of the storage system incorporated a huge removable sliding door which allows the artist to use it as an easel or a presentation board. The entire space was designed such as that the artist can maximize the space from the working table up to the modular storage system. This means that the accessibility of the materials are ordered and arranged according to their everyday importance.
Since all of the storage units are lined up against the two windowless walls, Stern was able to include two working desks in the layout.
A Space for Working and Living
Aside from the maximized working and storage space, Stern saw to it that the apartment is versatile enough to be used not only as a studio but as a place to live in where the artist can also relax or host friends. Behind the sliding door is a bed which can be pulled down and stowed when not in use.
The storage units and closets are made of white birch wood. The floor is also in the same shade using birch tiles. The two huge windows are covered with blinds so that the artist can easily control the amount of natural light within the space. The overall feel of the studio is airy and light which makes it a perfect place for living and working without overwhelming its occupant.
