Distinguishing the level of privacy that certain spaces demand is an important part of designing a successful and comfortable space. Separating spaces based on public, semi-public and private designations informs the design by grouping spaces with similar demands. Defining levels of desired privacy can be different for each client and at Incite we work to achieve the goals of each individual client throughout the whole design process. For the Barn Conversion Project, the client wants to renovate an existing barn to include a lower level accessible dwelling unit and an upper level gallery space. The gallery is a space to store and showcase art. Therefore, the space will occasionally serve as a public gathering location to exhibit artwork. To combine a private dwelling and public gallery requires an interstitial transition zone that allows the public to circulate to the upper level, while screening the private residence from public view and access. To achieve this, Incite broke away from our typical approach to stair design in which the stair acts as a connecting element between upper level living quarters and the kitchen area. At the Barn, we created an entry foyer with an adjacent restroom to be used as a guest bathroom for house guests as well as visitors of the gallery. The stair is also incorporated into the entry space so direct access is granted from the front door to the gallery without passage through the private dwelling. Understanding the level of privacy that each space requires is an important element in meeting multi-purpose design goals.
incite insight in site
