Architecture firm Open Kaart worked closely with their clients to turn a neglected backyard shed into a private painting studio nestled behind their home in Woerden, The Netherlands. What was once an unused structure, small and in poor condition, has now become a creative sanctuary where the homeowner can paint, teach, and find inspiration.
This transformation began as a long-held wish: to create a personal space for art. The homeowners were deeply involved in every step, even inviting their youngest son to build a small model of the preliminary design. The collaborative process extended to the family, the client’s brother-in-law contributed by crafting a new stained-glass window, adding a personal and artistic touch to the project.
Rather than demolishing the original shed, Open Kaart chose to build upon its foundations, keeping much of the existing half-stone masonry intact. The side walls were preserved, standing as quiet reminders of the shed’s humble origins. The roof was replaced, and a light wooden volume was added, creating enough height for an attic space inside.
This thoughtful approach balanced preservation and renewal, a new life built upon the old. The result is a structure that feels both grounded and elevated, connecting past and present in the same small footprint.
With a limited budget, the project’s success relied on ingenuity and craftsmanship rather than scale. The design cleverly combines three original masonry walls with a warm new wooden structure. Vertical planks and slats give depth and rhythm to the exterior, while inside, the studio is bright, practical, and welcoming, perfectly suited to painting workshops and creative work.
Importantly, the design also allows for future expansion, with space allocated for a potential bathroom addition. It’s a small but forward-thinking touch that adds flexibility without complicating the build.
Inside, the studio’s materials and technology reflect modern sustainability. The walls are lined with multiplex panels that seamlessly integrate LED lighting, art rails, and an infrared heating panel. Underfoot, electric underfloor heating ensures warmth year-round, while tap water is heated by an electric boiler, making the entire studio fully electric and energy efficient. Above, the new attic space offers additional storage and even a quiet retreat, a cozy perch above the painter’s main workspace.
The backyard studio in Woerden is a portrait of what’s possible through collaboration, craftsmanship, and respect for what already exists. With modest means and great attention to detail, Open Kaart has created a timeless space that’s perfectly suited to its artistic purpose.