Black Box writing studio by ANX captures iconic Los Angeles views
A small writing studio designed by Aaron Neubert Architects on a hill in Los Angeles frames views of the Griffith Observatory and other landmarks through a room-sized picture window (+ slideshow).
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The 200-square-foot (18.5 square metres) studio by LA-based Aaron Neubert Architects (ANX) is located in the Franklin Hills neighbourhood and serves as a workspace for a technology columnist and author.
The dark-stained redwood and blackened-steel structure features a 10 foot by 12 foot (3 meters by 3.6 meters) window wall.
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"I was interested in producing a simple sculptural gesture hovering over the landscape," Aaron Neubert told Dezeen. "The idea of an oversized picture window carved from a simple box was interesting for its capacity to reflect the sky during the day, illuminate the property at night, and present a spectacular view from its interior."
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The studio is located behind the client's existing residence. The steeply sloped site is terraced, with the new structure placed at the highest tier.
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Due to the steep terrain, the architect and his builder hung the two large glass sections – which together comprise the window – off the roof of the structure and then lowered them into place. One was broken during installation and had to be replaced and rehung.
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Visitors climb the steps up the hill and then turn around to face the view. They enter the studio from the side through a large sliding glass door, making the corner of the studio almost entirely transparent.
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"The position of the studio and the arrival sequence creates the desired separation between home life and work life," said the architect.
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The all-white interior is simply furnished with a pale-coloured desk and chairs. The uncluttered space is designed to further emphasise the views.
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The studio has proven so popular with the client that his wife has asked Neubert to design a workspace for her as well.
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The simplicity and purity of artist studios make them an appealing typology for architects, one open to countless interpretations – like this concrete bunker in Chile or this building in Scotland with quilted zinc cladding.
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