A small modern house with a metal exterior and large sliding glass doors, open to reveal a brightly lit interior. There is a gravel yard in front and a covered outdoor area with a satellite dish on the right side, surrounded by trees.

studio besant

Originally built as a prefabricated steel structure during World War II, Studio Besant was later repurposed as a utilitarian storage facility. This adaptive reuse project reimagines the historic building with a minimalist material palette and modern interventions. Key upgrades include new mechanical systems and the striking addition of ten-foot Fleetwood glass doors paired with custom steel bi-fold shutters. The result is a dynamic, light-filled studio that honors the structure’s industrial heritage while embracing contemporary functionality.

project description
Modern small house with large glass sliding door, outdoor seating with two wicker chairs and black side table, surrounded by trees.
An interior scene with a rustic wood table and chairs, a sideboard with art pieces, and baskets filled with rolled-up papers against a white wall adorned with artwork.
Bright living room with large window, sliding glass door leading outside, potted plants, wooden tables, chairs, small television, and various decorative items.
An outdoor patio with a long wooden dining table surrounded by white chairs, decorated with black lanterns and green plants. The patio has a gravel floor, a partially covered roof with two woven pendant lights, and lush green trees and bushes in the background.
Bright minimalist kitchen with white walls, stainless steel counter, open shelves with jars and decorative items, small sink area, and a black door with frosted glass.
Modern backyard shed with glass sliding doors, surrounded by green foliage and trees, under a clear blue sky.
Landscape design plan showing trees, a house, a tool shed, a workshop, a pavilion, a firepit, a garage, and various garden features, with labels and measurements. 
project details

location

ojai, ca

2015

completed

darwin mccredie

contractor

darwin mccredie

landscape