Christopherson & Graff Offices, Berkeley, California

Christopherson & Graff, Architects, converted an existing paint store and underutilized property into architectural offices. A single-story front facade respects adjacent residences, while large industrial windows reflect its more commercial character. A popular finish material in Berkeley, exterior shingles were selected for their warmth and durability and the entire building is designed with the dimension of a shingle as its basic module. On the inside, large, south-facing hopper windows light up the dramatic drafting room which features exposed wood beam ceilings supported by delicate trusses. Custom Douglas-fir casework completes the ensemble.