INTERLOCKING VOICES:
DUPLEX FOR A SINGER AND WRITER

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CORE STUDIO IV

SPRING 2026

In this project, we were tasked with designing a duplex for two varying individuals. My pair is a writer and opera singer. The pair of young, creative friends acquired land in Providence's performance district to pursue their passions together. Both professions are emotion-heavy and reliant on the other; their processes overlap and connect deeply. Building on their collaboration, the duplex is designed with an interlocking spatial scheme. The scheme results in large interlocking L shapes in plan and section to maximize daylighting for each individual, and a large overlapping shared area on the second floor.

WRITER: The writers' spaces are primarily on the west side of the duplex, maximizing afternoon light, to account for late or long working hours. The writer's side includes a double-height study with a terrace space that provides access to the tallest corners of the bookshelves lining the walls.

SHARED: The shared space includes a conversation pit-style seating area that orients around the practice stage. It is here where ideas can be shared, and projects are developed.

SINGER: The singers' spaces are primarily on the east side of the duplex to maximize morning light, contrasting their nightly routine under artificial lighting. The singer's side includes a small practice stage fit with multiple backdrops and a recording booth for projects or practice.