An Eclectic and Culturally-Influenced Boston Residence

Water is an essential element in japanese gardens and philosophy. Each space of the loft project represents some level of motion seen through the three natural states of water. Ice, or the solid state of water, is caused by minimal molecular movement due to the fixed particle structure. The kitchen takes its inspiration from the motion of ice. Liquid water is characterized by a more fluid structure where water molecules are still connected to one another but exhibit a greater degree of movement. The master suite is influenced by water in its most common state; water as gas, or water vapor, occurs when increased energy causes water molecules to break their bonds with one another, resulting in rapid movement. The entrance lobby and the open living and dining spaces of the loft will have a more energetic feel inspired by water in its gaseous form. 

The loft is designed for a single thirty-year old business man whose parents are immigrants from Japan. He seeks an eclectic place to live in downtown Boston, a loft apartment with contemporary flair and cultural elements that draw from his heritage. The approach to the design was to allow water to be the driving force and to be influenced by a japanese aesthetic all done in a high-end way with the best materials, furniture, and finishes, such as black and gold marble, shou-sugi-ban wood flooring and accents, and custom ceiling features informed by the fluidity of water.

NOTE: I partnered on this project with my classmate, JoAnn Rutherford (Harding University, class of 2016). She was great to work with and had a large hand in the design and execution of the project.