A new studio and courtyard inspired by ancient Chinese housing design maximize the potential of this 1940s residence in Seattle. Grasshopper Studio and Courtyard, designed by Wittman Estes Architecture + Landscape, encourages flexibility, and exhibits a beautiful outdoor space filled with greenery.
The project sits on a rectangular lot with an existing house, which was built in the 1940s. The design includes a multi-functional studio space toward the back of the lot, and a sunken courtyard that provides privacy and a strong connection to nature. The architects wanted to redefine traditional single-family housing and create a space that offers an alternative to the boxy structures taking over the city.
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“Normative new housing demolishes existing small buildings and replaces them with Seattle Modern Boxes that maximize building size and density within zoning setbacks,” the firm said. “Grasshopper Studio and Courtyard offers an alternative density called courtyard urbanism.”
The 360-square-foot open-plan studio features a glass wall on the side facing the house. The façade that faces an alley is clad in corrugated metal sheets. An overhang extends beyond the south wall and forms a carport.
The studio opens onto a sunken patio inspired by ancient Chinese courtyards. Here, the family can dine, relax and entertain guests. In the center of the courtyard, a silk tree provides shade during hot summers.
+ Wittman Estes Architecture + Landscape
Via Dezeen
Photos by Nic Lehoux
