through the lens

The Williams Studio on Stony Lake, Ontario, Canada reminds me of a playful concept between the observer and the subject. gh3 Architects was commisioned to create a residence for a photographer live/work studio. The end result is a compelling simple with open space that unify the interior and exterior. A curtain wall glazed with low-iron glass was incorporated as a transparent facade providing and unparalleled natural illumination thus creating a photographic apparatus to produce images unobtainable in a conventional studio.

In terms of sustainability, matte black facade exploits the abundant solar input, eliminating the need for heaters on winter days, meanwhile the lake allows the use of a deep-water exchange through radiant slabs to heat and cool the building year–round. Sliding panes in the glass facade also allows for natural ventilation, while an individually automated blind system, white roof, and the hedgerow guard against excessive solar gain. The continuous blind system also creates the interior into a intimate space by reflecting the view of the surrounding landscape.