Porter Loft

Porter Loft is a minimal home located in Boston, Massachusetts, designed by CO-G. At 442 Porter, a once-dilapidated studio is transformed into a multi-functional, live-work loft situated in a historic concrete warehouse along the East Boston waterfront. The building, originally constructed to manufacture GE light bulbs, now houses a versatile space that accommodates both living and working environments. The design employs a material-centric approach, with each element of living — a wall, curtain, bench, counter, and mirror — crafted from a distinct material to create a unique sensory experience.

Assembled together, these materials offer flexible delineation for the loft, which features overlapping living and working zones. This adaptability results in a transformer-like space that adjusts throughout the day. The living area, positioned along the building’s exterior, is lined with wall-to-wall windows. A continuous Douglas fir plywood bench spans the width of the unit under the windows, serving as a versatile seating, dining, storage, and plant display area. A translucent polycarbonate movable wall separates the living space from the bedroom and kitchen, which sit back-to-back at the heart of the layout. This wall permits the passage of light without direct exposure, providing privacy while maintaining brightness. A movable portion enables the bedroom to be either entirely open to or separate from the living space.

The work area occupies the loft’s long length, with an 11-foot curtain providing a screen and video conference backdrop when both living and working areas are in use. The kitchen features an upturned Arabescato marble counter, concealed appliances, and oversized white oak accents, creating an abstract focal point upon entering the unit. A private workspace is nestled between the bedroom and bathroom, illuminated by a clerestory window that borrows light from the adjacent living area. Custom furniture by CO-G, including polished stainless steel mirrors, a plaster cast “terrazzo” pedestal, and an ash-constructed dimple chair, adorn the space. Additional furnishings are sourced from Hay, Muuto, Ferm Living, and vintage Herman Miller lounge chairs.

Photography by Samuel Balukonis

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