Transformations

The most powerful way to affect the carbon footprint (and the cost) of a project is to reduce the overall square footage.  No other single factor will come even close to making the same kind of difference as a reduction in overall size.  Often that means getting the same program, the same functionality, out of a smaller, better space through clever design solutions. 

Middle Creek Bungalow by Knowles Architect, Inc., photo by @rgavinknowles

One of the best tools is creating multifunctional spaces through transformational elements.  A few examples of these from past projects are:

Middle Creek Bungalow by Knowles Architect, Inc., photo by @rgavinknowles

A desk built into the wall behind sliding panels so the room can be an office during the day and a family room at night. 

Flying Dollar Residence by Lundberg Design (R. Gavin Knowles project architect), photo by @brianwetzelphoto

Murphy beds and nightstands that fold out of wall storage in a one-room studio space. 

Flying Dollar Residence by Lundberg Design (R. Gavin Knowles project architect), photo by @brianwetzelphoto

A lockable sliding wall panel that lets a vacation residence also function as the visitor’s restroom for a rural airport. 

Autodesk Pier 9 by Lundberg Design (R. Gavin Knowles project architect), photos by @blakemarvin

A full bi-fold glass wall and a conference table on casters that allows a conference room to open onto a robotics testing workshop for larger events.

Each of these transformations in the space get more function out of a smaller square footage, while also increasing the user’s physical interaction with the building.  By making these transformations a conscious task it enhances our mental connection to the space, and by extension the place itself.

How can we help you enhance your connection to your place?

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