Spring 2020
Advanced Studio: Component Assembly
Taught by: Adam Marcus and Matt Hutchinson
Group Member: Mithila Jagtap
“Backyard Nooks” investigates ways to combine temporary living and work space. Located in west Los Angeles, the project speculates how neighbors might join together to transform the neglected back lots homes into social hubs. While temporarily hosting 4-6 people, the living/studio space serves as a retreat for writers. The building has a system of nooks, stairs, landings and sleeping lofts which create variation between public and private spaces.
On a larger scale scale, the stair design is informed by the program of the space, taking on additional forms and functions such as: seating, book shelves, and breakfast table.The tectonic system is curated to fit the users needs, proving it’s adaptability and flexibility.
The project occupies two lots, spanning across an existing alleyway. Nooks are private, and everything else is communal space for the residents and neighbors.The assembly of the building is efficient with its use of simple components and a prefabricated CLT system for the nooks, which support the floors.
The stair’s risers and treads vary between bent steel and plywood with pockets to merge the materials. The teeth-like geometry and spacings are designed for easy manipulation of the steel. Visual continuity is accomplished through perforations, glass facade, timber canopy, and reveals in the floor plate. By merging the threshold between exterior and interior space, Backyard Nooks provides a unique living experience connecting the users with the surrounding neighborhood.
Site Axon
Alley Perspective