Evolving Inwards

INTERSTICE Architects transforms a formerly closed-off, partitioned, and crowded penthouse apartment in the South Beach neighborhood of San Francisco into an open, light-filled space. The reorganized interior is a series of rooms that evolve inwards in scale and texture, from a large open public living area to an ever more intimate core of privacy and warmth.

 

 

 

 

 

Minimalist Progression

The long steel spans of the existing building’s frame are exploited to enhance flexibility and the overall flow of the space. INTERSTICE stripped away the hierarchical false-work and built-up decorative layers in order to reveal a minimalist progression of dynamic space. Interior smart-wall elements of consolidated program are deployed as large, monolithic, furniture-like objects which enhance the perception of openness. Expanses of sliding walls and glass doors work in concert to reveal flexible and informal spaces served by generous, cleverly-concealed storage.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

An Unfolding Gallery

The resulting loft is a minimalist space for urban living exhibiting two distinct characters: firstly, as a neutral white box punctuated by exposed concrete shear walls; secondly, as a tightly controlled layering of program-specific, monolithic volumes constructed from walnut, blue steel, stone, glass, and felt. The interior unfolds, gallery-like, displaying material volumes that serve specific functions of domestic life. Clean detailing complements an authentic use of materials to provide the rigorous modernized space with a sense of intimacy and quiet luxury.

 

• Residential