Mica House

Stanton Williams’ were selected because of our previous design work on exhibitions at the Tate and Hayward Gallery and Issey Miyake stores. The owner (a graphic design consultant) wanted a family home for her and her two daughters that was full of light, and through its flexibility, avoided formal boundaries between living and working space.

A new steel-framed structure was placed on the top floor of a warehouse to create an L-shaped apartment, open along its entire length onto a terrace with a full-height glazed wall. This extends the inside out and outside in, and allows for 360º degree city views. We tracked the path of the sun from morning to night and from season to season to select the optimum position for the apartment and harness the flow of light, giving a living space constantly changed and coloured by nature.The inside and outside were viewed as one space, by carefully using glass, stainless steel, overlapping levels, screens, sliding panels and timber flooring. A simple open-plan living and dining area was created that doubles as a flexible living space and stimulating backdrop for client meetings and creative work. Bespoke furniture was designed as sculptural elements within the space – with sliding doors and a folding floor concealing the kitchen. To manage the environment effectively, flat radiators were carved into the walls, underfloor heating was installed and concealed sun shading blinds were used. A limited palette of materials and plaster walls reflect light around the space.