This was a fun little project we completed in September, 2009. Over the years, I have done a lot of work for this client, and I was honored that he had called me again to create a new space for him to work. The client, Nish, had been using a computer armoire in his family room for years. It had served him well but he had decided it was time to remodel the family room. In the process, he asked me to design a workspace solution for him that complemented his home.
Chevy Chase, MD remodel - before
Nish's home is very contemporary, originally designed by Travis Price, I think. The french country armoire didn't fit with the contemporary theme throughout the home, so we set to work resolving the issue. It was obvious that he needed more storage space, and that the solution must still incorporate a modern working desk and filing system.
conceptual sketch
I generated a few conceptual schemes and we settled on an idea that made better use of the whole wall and used some of the existing forms already within his home. The existing windows brought in lots of good natural lighting, but they seemed oddly positioned as if they were originally designed around a specific artwork or future fireplace. I designed the desk to bridge the space between the windows, create more storage space, yet leave a space for artwork.
study model - foam core and balsa wood
Given that the proposed desk incorporated some unusual angles, I built a study model so we could gage the scale and shape of the proposal before we set about building it. Scaled study models are very helpful tools. When photographed, they allow us to envision a finished product in very much the same environment that it will be placed. The model was very helpful. It was obvious to us that the desk needed to be shorter in length, and we finalized its dimensions and produced our shop drawings.
shop drawings for fabrication
The new desk is built with flush doors and drawer fronts of naturally finished maple with a Brazilian soapstone top. Inside, the cabinets are fitted with plenty of storage amenities including roll-out shelves, slide-out printer and computer trays, adjustable shelves, file drawer hardware, full extension drawer glides, and sorting cubbies.
installation
Nish loves his new workspace. It has a place for everything and fits well with his existing home. Sometimes it just makes a lot of sense to build the right furniture for a space rather than settle for something "that works ok".
almost complete (sans knobs and handles)
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