VIOLINMAKER’S STUDIO | BARBERMCMURRY ARCHITECTS
SECTOR: CommercialTYPE: Adaptive ReuseBUILDING AREA: 1,000SFCURRENT PHASE/ESTIMATED COMPLETION: Schematic Design/Winter 2027ROLE: Project architect and project manager. Roles included program, project workplan, and project schedule creation; consultant coordination from pre-design on; code analysis; conceptual design; generating passive design concepts; and consultant coordinationThe violinmaker’s studio rehabilitates a blighted 1930s grocer into a modern violinmaking studio with classic undertones. The proposed design features a tuned sun-shade canopy that offers vital solar protection to instruments on display, brick veneer with playful detailing that harkens back to Knoxville’s past, and insulation and envelope upgrades to ensure occupant comfort while crating fine violins.
The existing storefront is located in Old North Knoxville, convenient to Broadway and the rapidly developing Happy Holler district. The updated historic storefronts of Happy Holler and craftsman era homes of Old North play an integral role in the design inspiration of this project.
Though an existing building, site constraints still play a part and require a careful review and navigation of zoning, stormwater, and sidewalk ordinance.
Sun path analyses were conducted with sun path diagrams, diagrammatic sections, and Autodesk Forma's daylight hours analysis tool. These analyses provided critical data for the ultimate question: to canopy or not to canopy?
One design option features a simple post-supported canopy, more traditional detailing in the proposed brick veneer to soften the "forehead", and classic wood trim beneath modernized storefront windows.
Another design option featuring a sleek cantilevered canopy, more playful brick details that speak to the violinmaker's wood blanks, and more resilient fiber cement trim beneath modernized storefront windows.