A couple was looking to move downtown to a pied-a-terre where they could live and work amidst their large collection of African art. In the end, they purchased 3,600 sf of raw space at Locust Walk at Washington Square, a historic turn of the century, five-story building located in the Society Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia. The rectangular space has large numbers of windows on two exposures, and a linear scheme was developed. All walls and built-ins were pulled away from the exterior walls, providing for an open vista along the full extent along the exterior face. By not breaking the apartment down into smaller enclosed rooms, the full breadth of the space can be taken in and experienced. A half-round gallery space greets visitors as one moves through the entry. At this point, public spaces extend in one direction, and more private spaces, including a large home office and the master suite extend in the other direction. In order to best display the sculptural artwork, the spaces were conceived of a clean, drywall boxes. The existing heavy timber structure and steel frame was encased in drywall as well, creating a quiet backdrop to the real star - the beloved art that fills this apartment's every room. Barry Halkin and Todd Mason Photography