Forest Hills Living Annex
Location - Forest Hills, Queens, New York
Completed - 2025
All images courtesy of Studio Nicholas Venezia.
When our clients approached us with their 350-square-foot rear yard garage, it was in dire shape, with a caved-in roof and crumbling walls. Despite these challenges, we saw the potential to transform this neglected structure into a flexible, serene indoor/outdoor living space for a family of four.
Working in New York requires careful navigation of building codes and zoning rules, which can feel like a negotiation at every step. For this project, we framed the design as a renovation, rather than a reconstruction, retaining over 50 percent of the original garage. We reused the foundation and masonry walls, keeping the project within budget while preserving the character of the existing building.
The design features a new roof that mirrors the original silhouette but extends deeper eaves for protection from the elements. To achieve the clients’ goal of a seamless indoor/outdoor connection, we incorporated two sets of wide French doors, filling the interior with natural light and opening the space to the backyard.
Completed - 2025
All images courtesy of Studio Nicholas Venezia.
When our clients approached us with their 350-square-foot rear yard garage, it was in dire shape, with a caved-in roof and crumbling walls. Despite these challenges, we saw the potential to transform this neglected structure into a flexible, serene indoor/outdoor living space for a family of four.
Working in New York requires careful navigation of building codes and zoning rules, which can feel like a negotiation at every step. For this project, we framed the design as a renovation, rather than a reconstruction, retaining over 50 percent of the original garage. We reused the foundation and masonry walls, keeping the project within budget while preserving the character of the existing building.
The design features a new roof that mirrors the original silhouette but extends deeper eaves for protection from the elements. To achieve the clients’ goal of a seamless indoor/outdoor connection, we incorporated two sets of wide French doors, filling the interior with natural light and opening the space to the backyard.
Inside, the space functions as one open room, finished with practical, cost-conscious materials. A self-leveling concrete floor is topped with Forbo Marmoleum, combining durability with subtle warmth. White-painted beadboard lines the pitched ceiling, and drop lighting fixtures from Volume Lighting provide effective illumination.
The space was designed to be adaptable. While it currently serves as a home office and playroom, an independent electrical supply, HVAC system, and additional windows make future conversion into an Accessory Dwelling Unit straightforward. This project demonstrates how even modest garages can be revitalized to become functional, inviting, and adaptable spaces.
The space was designed to be adaptable. While it currently serves as a home office and playroom, an independent electrical supply, HVAC system, and additional windows make future conversion into an Accessory Dwelling Unit straightforward. This project demonstrates how even modest garages can be revitalized to become functional, inviting, and adaptable spaces.
(Proposed Plan)
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