MESH Architectures’ Atrium House Will Have You Saying “Toto, I Don’t Think We’re in Williamsburg Anymore”
You’re not dreaming; this house is in Williamsburg. In fact, it harkens back to the neighborhood’s industrial roots and stays true to the low-scale character of the area. The navy blue cube was originally built as a garage that occupied the entire 22’ x 100’ lot, but when converted to residential use in 2011, NYC zoning regulations mandated that a certain percentage of the site be reserved for a yard. Enter MESH Architectures, the creative firm that devised a genius plan to incorporate the required outdoor space as an inner atrium, letting the outside in while still maintaining a sense of privacy.
The central space is composed of two volumes – a double-height great room and the courtyard surrounded by folding-glass doors on three sides. The great room, master bedroom, and bathroom sit behind these glass walls, seamlessly blending the indoors with the zen, outdoor area.
An architectural staircase ascends the great room wall like a piece of sculptural art. It leads to a hall across the second floor, connecting two roof-top decks and a second bedroom/office. The home’s entrance is on a main axis that extends the 100-foot length of the house’s 2,100 square feet of indoor space. Along the hallway wall are tracks with fittings that allow the owner to showcase his curated artwork, lighting, and electronics, which can be installed anywhere thanks to a system of PlugMolds. Also on this wall are unique lighting fixtures designed by the architect and made of plumbing pipe.
The retro, pea green cabinetry in the kitchen pops against the wood-paneled walls, the pine planks salvaged from the original garage’s joists, and the neutral-colored radiant concrete floors, which heat the home. It also compliments the copper wood-burning stove in the living room.
The homeowner, Steve, is a musician, actor, and all-around artist whose lifestyle definitely jives with the innovative and creative design of the house. He is able to control the heating, TV, and lighting through his iPhone, and has a garage and recording studio in front of the building.
It may not be in Kansas, but this modern home still feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of trendy Williamsburg.
Get more design inspiration from MESH Architectures here.
Images courtesy of MESH Architectures
