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Artist Studio
Date
2025
Location
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Role
Project Manager, Designer, and Technical Drafter at Joe the Architect (JTA)
Project type
Interior apartment gut renovation
The Challenge: An artist came to us needing to transform a 750-square-foot basement apartment into a multi-functional creative space. They wanted a studio that could accommodate dance, painting, pottery, and music production, while also serving as a liveable apartment and guest suite.
The Solution: We designed a flexible space that adapts to the artist's changing needs through smart architectural solutions. The key design moves were a bookcase that reveals a hidden music studio, a Murphy bed for overnight guests, and carefully planned zones for different creative activities. The design celebrates the existing brick walls and wood floors while adding custom millwork that maximizes every square foot.
Working within a modest budget of $125-200k, we focused on thoughtful design over expensive finishes. A new casement window brings natural light into the flex space, while the compact kitchen provides full functionality without sacrificing studio area.
Project Scope:
Complete basement apartment conversion to artist studio
Custom millwork including Murphy bed and bookcase system
Kitchen design with new appliances and storage
Bathroom renovation with updated fixtures
Full architectural design from concept through construction documentation
The Result: A transformed creative sanctuary that proves small spaces can live large. The studio seamlessly transitions from dance rehearsal to art studio to comfortable living quarters, giving the artist complete flexibility to pursue multiple creative practices.











