This project is conversion of what was originally a 1930’s gas station created in the Spanish revival  style into a single family residence. Given the restrictive lot parameters the upstairs is being reclaimed as the living quarters and landscape component. The deteriorating structure of the existing unreinforced brick lower floor created a condition where the second floor studio needed to be developed in a manner that was structurally autonomous. Four 8" steel posts pierce the lower floor and elevate the second floor studio enough to facilitate a 540 sq. ft. residence and 250 sq. ft. upper level deck. Reclaiming the existing roof as an occupiable space and addressing privacy concerns the owner had regarding the close proximity to a major boulevard. The original porte-corchere is maintained and further enhanced by the new addition which echoes the drive-through and cantilevers out over the driveway - capturing space beneath it for use as an outdoor patio.  Features such as the original mechanics pit have been adapted to become a wine storage area and what was originally the mechanics area is re-proposed as a two car parking garage.

3640 10th street, Long Beach