SOKO is a mixed-use project located in downtown Sherbrooke, Que.’s transitioning commercial neighbourhood.
The newly renovated 1,114-m2 (12,000-sf), five-unit apartment building is currently home and studio for designers Mark Fekete and Viviana De Loera, founders of MARK + VIVI.
Originally built between 1914 and 1920, the once-abandoned furniture warehouse now serves as a residence and coworking cafe for many of the city’s international students, academics, researchers, and young professionals.
The space features demolished century-old timber framing and oak floorboards that have been converted to furniture and accent pieces.
Much of the original exterior red brick is kept untouched. Interior steel columns and structural glulam beams are added to support the existing traditional heavy wood framing.
SOKO uses natural light extensively. Mineral wool insulation was installed throughout.
Painted and exposed surfaces such as floors, walls, and cabinets are finished in low VOC treatments. All existing windows are replaced with double-glazed low-E units.
