HOM3
Subscribe now to instantly view this image
Subscribe to the Architects’ Journal (AJ) for instant access to the AJ Buildings Library, an online database of nearly 2,000 exemplar buildings in photographs, plans, elevations and details.
Already a subscriber? Sign in
JaK_Studio_Consultancy_Ltd-A6HNVW79X9EV60AA6HNVW79X9EV60A_1
Photos by Anushe Low Download Original
To fulfill our client's need for a versatile art studio and office in their compact urban garden, we drew inspiration from the creative world of Minecraft.
Our solution? The prefabricated modular HOM3 (Home Office Module Cubed) system, offering bespoke configurations tailored to the client's brief. The challenge arose from the presence of a majestic protected London plane tree occupying the desired location. We approached this obstacle creatively, crafting two distinct modules, "His" and "Hers," flanking the tree to form an intimate courtyard space that embraced, rather than displaced, nature. On one side, a multi-purpose art studio took shape, complete with a painting wall, drawing board, and utility area—a haven for creativity amidst the tranquil garden setting. On the other, a small office booth emerged, providing our clients with a secluded sanctuary for conference calls and focused work. Bringing this vision to life presented its own set of challenges. The tree's location mandated a lightweight structure supported by micro screw piles to minimize disruption to the root system. Additionally, the constrained garden space necessitated innovative construction methods, leading to the prefabrication and crane installation of each 1.5 x 1.5 module over the five-story house. Despite these hurdles, sustainability remained at the forefront of our approach. Each module boasts highly insulated, low embodied carbon materials, reflecting our unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility. Furthermore, the modular design enables adaptability, facilitating future additions, removals, or repurposing with the circular economy in mind. In summary, the project transcends the conventional notion of a Covid Home Office. It represents a fusion of our clients' needs, nature, micro-architecture, product design, and sustainability. We've created a space that not only meets our clients' requirements but also celebrates the beauty of inner-city living beneath the canopy of a tree.
Data
- Begun: Jun 2023
- Completed: Aug 2023
- Floor area: 18m2
- Sector: Arts and culture
- Total cost: £80,000
- Funding: Private
- Tender date: Jan 2023
- Procurement: JCT Minor Works Contract
- Address: 1 Palace Gardens Terrace, London , W8 4RR, United Kingdom
Professional Team 
- Architect: JaK Studio Consultancy Ltd
- Client: Alex & Lena Okun
- Structural Engineers : Car Ltd
- Services engineer: Lamorbey
- QS: JaM Management
- Planning consultant: JaK Studio
- Main contractor: BiS Interiors
Suppliers
- HOM3 Manufacturer: Ingramms Doo Sarajevo