96 Penhallow Street

Placework Studio

Client

Daniel Street Properties

Year

2014

Location

Portsmouth, NH

Awards

AIA New Hampshire Merit Award 2016

Uncovering industrial beauty

When the owner of a former paint store warehouse asked if we thought it could become viable office space, we leapt at the opportunity to create an original studio for our team. The raw envelope exposed a rich history of materials used throughout the building’s lifespan, including layers of steel, wood, and masonry added during different eras.

New windows allow natural light from both ends of the studio and salvaged barn wood flooring mirrors the original exposed sheathing boards that now form the primary partition within the space. The site-specific work-stations, tables, and shelving were constructed by a local craftsman from construction using industry basics, such as oriented strand board and dimensional lumber. The office also includes conference space, kitchenette facilities, and new access to a roof deck.