UrbanLab designed this small courtyard building to provide a workspace and residence under one (split) roof. Historically, up until the Industrial Revolution, live/work houses were very common. Descending to one’s own street level shop from a second level home was the most natural thing to do. This archetypal dwelling has never in fact ceased to exist, especially in cities. This live/work building is designed especially around the owners’ genuine home-based working needs. The building is divided into two double-story units connected by a common courtyard. The front unit – along the public sidewalk – is a double–height loft. The back living unit – tucked behind the courtyard – delivers coziness and peace of mind. The second floor of the living unit is setback to allow extra light into the courtyard, create a greenroof patio, and provide cover for the parking area. The focus of the ground floor — the main living, courtyard and working space — is inward; the second floor, outward toward the skyline view.