Artist's Studio

Prince Edward County, ON

The Artist’s Studio, a private working studio in Prince Edward County, responds to the specific conditions in its surrounding landscape to define a contemplative and creative space for artistic production. Set in a densely wooded area, the simple, almost-rectangular, cedar-shingled shed leaves all existing trees intact. Its east wall gently curves, inflected by a 100-year-old oak tree. A stepping-stone footpath leads to a corten steel-canopied entrance at the northeast corner of the building. As viewed from the entrance, the scale of the studio appears small, yet inside, the continuous open space expands with a sloped ceiling rising over the double-height painting studio.

Downstairs, the washing area and storage space tuck away behind the stair, leaving the painting studio completely open and unobstructed. The artist’s activities called for the specific requirement of indirect lighting; on the northern wall, large wood-framed windows and glass doors open to an outdoor sculpture court, also facilitating the transport of large artworks and materials.

Project Facts
Client
Otto Rogers
Location
Prince Edward County, ON
Status
Completed 2000
Size
1,650 sq. ft.
Partner
Siamak Hariri
Selected Awards

2002 – Ontario Association of Architects, Architectural Excellence Awards, Honourable Mention

"The attention to detail and sensitivity of Siamak's work is a rare achievement in today’s world. His work does not seek innovation simply to express something new, rather his inventive spirit is in the service of a lasting perfection. He is always the definition of the Architect. This is true with every project regardless of its size or budget as it was with my studio."

—Otto Rogers, Artist
The second level was designed with a clear view into the painting studio, allowing the artist to look down freely from the mezzanine onto the space and observe projects in progress.

The mezzanine serves as a drawing studio. A custom millwork unit for drawing and storing supplies, complete with a small sink for wetting paper, extends horizontally across this upper working level.

The subtle use of geometry in the design echoes natural structures and patterns, situating the studio within the surrounding landscape and deeply wooded area. The entrance, set into the north-east corner of the building, initiates the experience of the studio where the subtle curve of the east wall ends, revealing the spacious interior.

Large wood-framed windows and glass doors on the north wall allow indirect natural light and provide views to the sculpture garden and surrounding forest.