Rather than demolishing what was once an old concrete barn and constructing a brand new building on top of the site, architectural practice Studio Bua led by Mark Smyth has instead transformed the derelict structure into a modern and livable studio for an artist.
Located in western Iceland, the barn is situated on a former farm and boasts a magnificent sight of the Breiðafjörður Nature Reserve.
“Our brief was to conceive a design that would house an artist studio and home for the owners,” explains Studio Bua. “We strove to keep what was possible of the concrete structure to preserve its unique character and to make use of those elements that were still fit for purpose.”
Studio Bua says that the main barn structure is thick and stable thanks to being made of mass concrete. As such, it was roofed with corrugated steel and a two-storey timber structure was built inside.
Meanwhile, the accompanying lean-to’s roof was completely gone and in ruin. Not to mention, the fragile walls lacked foundations and were not level with the main barn. It was decided to leave the walls as is and now serves as an enclosed garden space.
The minimalist interior features polished concrete floors, stained birch plywood walls, and multiple windows that provide both light and views of the stunning landscape.
All images in this article are courtesy of Studio Bua.
