Several years ago, I stumbled upon a design intervention in a quaint Philadelphia row home that truly captivated my interest – a daring installation of a simple skylight. Having worked with various versions and sizes of skylights and "sky windows" over the years, I understand the complexities and expenses associated with such renovations, from structural changes to meticulously timing the cut in the roof.
However, this particular installation stood out. It exudes an aura of ease, effortlessness, and inevitability, delivering a transformative effect that left me pleasantly surprised.
However, this particular installation stood out. It exudes an aura of ease, effortlessness, and inevitability, delivering a transformative effect that left me pleasantly surprised.
Situated in a delightful Center City neighborhood, this two-story home, measuring 40' deep by 13.5' wide, represents a petite version of a tidy city residence. The addition of a south-facing rear yard, contributing an extra 3' to the overall length, previously provided most of the natural light to the interior. The layout, showcased in the plans below, aligns with the common structure of 2-bedroom, 1-bath homes. The first floor comprises the Living and Dining Rooms, with a galley Kitchen near the Garden at the back. The second floor hosts two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a strategically placed light well that bathes the Living Room in natural light. In a compact home, square footage is a precious commodity, and maximizing its use is paramount.
The brilliance of this intervention lies in its minimal footprint, equivalent to the space of a small closet. The tradeoff, in terms of square footage, is negligible compared to the immense benefits of a sunlit, vibrant living space. What truly impressed me was the transformative potential of the one-story light well – it's not just about bringing in light; it opens doors to creative design opportunities. Interior windows and transoms naturally capitalize on this newfound brightness, creating a seamless flow between spaces in all directions. One well-placed skylight becomes a catalyst for a cascade of architectural creativity. The ethos of doing more with less never ceases to amaze.
This singular installation breathes life into multiple spaces, underscoring the notion that, in the realm of residential design, sometimes, it's the simplest solutions that leave the most lasting impressions. This unassuming design choice has the power to transform small spaces into illuminated sanctuaries, showcasing the brilliance that emerges from a well-executed, boldly creative intervention.
-Joe Morrison
