Studio West Office
2340 Dauphine Street
Client: Studio West
Role: Architect, Interior Design, Historic Tax Credits
Scope: Historic Renovation
Status: Complete 2022
Size: 1,800 sq. ft.
Collaborators: Synergy Consulting Engineers, Hull Design, Arch Builders
Historic commercial corner store transformed into a contemporary design office
Studio West’s office renovation showcases our design philosophy: careful consideration of what’s valuable and historic, alongside contemporary interventions. Before undertaking the renovation, which utilized historic tax credits, Studio West carefully researched the history of the former corner store pharmacy, constructed in 1910. The interior retains the most significant historic elements, bead board walls, tin-coated steel ceiling, and original tile flooring, while providing new contemporary oak and maple millwork and furnishings with classic modern light fixtures.
With remote work on the rise, how do you design an office that people want to come to every day?
Studio West undertook the design and development of the office in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. To promote an environment of collaboration, Studio West sought to maximize daylight and provide spaces that our staff would want to utilize during the day. Retaining the existing wood raised flooring helped keep the renovation sustainable while allowing for a warmth that is not often found in design offices.
The office is in the heart of a mixed-use commercial and residential stretch of the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood of New Orleans, just blocks from the historic French Quarter. The location provides ample options for mid-day coffee and interactions with our neighbors. To embody Studio West’s values of staff well-being, Studio West designed the exterior side yard as a lushly planted private garden. The furnished back patio is relaxing spot for lunches and company events and provides a place to rest and recharge.
