A Light-Flooded Photographer’s Studio in Canada

A bespoke glass live/work studio by Toronto-based design practice gh3 empowers a photographer to be the master of his own light; realizing the universal dream of every illumination-obsessed artist.

Perched on the edge of Stoney Lake, the structure updates the 19th-century convention of the ideal artist’s studio as an isolated windowless space whose only natural light comes in from the skylights above. The architects used glass-curtain wall construction to create a double-height space that is open to the natural surroundings while providing a continuous diffused light.

Photography by Larry Williams, via Arch Daily.

Above: Williams Studio sits on a glacier outcrop overlooking Stoney Lake in Lakefield, Ontario. The lakefront site enables the use of a deep-water exchange to heat and cool the building year round. The glass box sits on a granite plinth; the thermal mass absorbs solar heat and helps to heat the studio during the winter.

Above: Living spaces suspended above the main space can be concealed with operable, translucent glass walls. The glass skin of the curtain wall contains sliding panes, which enable the facade to open to the outdoors for natural ventilation.

Above: The kitchen is tucked under the mezzanine. The continuous blind system protects against solar gain and also allows the photographer ways to manipulate both the natural light and the feeling of private enclosure within the space.

Above: The delicate form of the Bertoia Diamond chair heightens the solidity of the glacial rock outside.

Above: The honed granite on the inside sits in contrast to the rough-hewn steps and glacial rock outside.

Above: The interior of the house is clad with white lacquered panels, which diffuse light throughout the interior.

Above: Lights in the ceiling allow for a myriad of artificial lighting conditions.

Above: The building sits above a boat house and provides expansive views across the lake.

Above: At night, the house emits light and glows like a lantern.