We designed this compact pied-à-terre for a mother and her young children to function in two distinct modes: as a family home when all are present, and as a lofty studio when only the adult is home.

A large closet wall called the Monolith organizes the home. It is over-scaled for a home of this size and thus has a presence in every room.

It’s clearly identified by the solid wood detailing, which ensures that areas of high use will look good for a long time to come.

Architecturally, it organizes the floor plan and gives both bedrooms their own unique entrance so that parent and children have a feeling of privacy.

—

• Images: Mark Wickens