Rented space: The couple who live and work in a converted warehouse

Photography producer Sarah Ewing, business development professional James Walker and their Vizsla Humphreys rent a converted warehouse in Northcote, Melbourne.

This space is the couple’s residence as well as the site of their photography business Atlantic Studios (which is available for public hire) and Ewing’s photography agency SEA.

Double doors between the photographic studio and warehouse apartment divide the work and living dimensions of the space, separating work from home life.

“The whole building works as a cohesive space which is fantastic, but you can also divide it up in to separate private areas for different purposes.

“We love the flexibility and we think it provides something really different for the clients that come in to use the space,” Ewing says.

The building was originally an industrial manufacturing site before it was converted into a private photography studio several years ago.

Seeing the long-term potential of the space, Ewing and Walker managed to secure a commercial three-year lease affording them the time and flexibility to give it a considerable makeover.

“If you can get a slightly longer lease your relationship with the building changes. Making a bigger investment makes you feel more committed and in a sense what you put in feels like it’s a less risky proposition,” Walker says.

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They engaged a team to renovate the space over four months, which saw a new bathroom and kitchen added to the studio along with numerous coats of white paint.

Almost all the furniture has been chosen specifically for this rental, as the couple’s former furniture (bought to suit an art deco apartment) felt too small and dark for a warehouse. Several pieces have been placed on wheels in order to be moved around for different shoots as required.

A big challenge has been incorporating storage space into the home. Former school lockers are used as a kitchen pantry, a standalone rack holds clothes, and a small loft space above the dining area holds books and records.

As people in the photography industry, having so much wall space to hang works is one of the greatest joys of this home.

Currently on display are three works from the series Braided Rivers: Iceland by SEA photographer Tom Hutton alongside others by Phil Toledano, Sean Fennessy, Paul Blackmore, Rennie Ellis and Bill Henson.

See more at rentedspace.com.au