Modern dwelling suspended on a cliff overlooking Lake Austin

By One Kindesign October 2, 2016

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This spectacular modern dwelling was designed by architects Specht Harpman, entrenched halfway down a cliff overlooking Lake Austin, in Austin, Texas. According to the architects of this magnificent architectural masterpiece, the home is suspended on a narrow limestone ridge. The previous structure was built in the 1970s, severely dated, the home needed a new facelift and interior layout. The re-design builds upon the existing framework, expanding the home to make it more habitable for an elderly couple. The architects have enhanced the home’s connection with its dramatic site, integrating elements of personal importance to the homeowners.

The residence had originally featured an entryway that was somewhat hazardous. Access was down a steep exterior ramp that led visitors from the street level down to a front entrance, twenty-five feet below! The new design showcases a beautiful entryway through a luminous pavilion, which overlooks the lake. Through the wood entryway door of the pavilion, one can walk to the other side, through a glass door and out onto a rooftop deck. The deck offers a wonderful space to lounge, enjoy the captivating lake views and select ingredients for a delicious meal from an herb garden.

The interior of this entryway pavilion is open to the full-height of this lakeside dwelling. A staircase as well as elevator access takes visitors down three levels of the home. As you descend through the spaces, expansive windows capture vistas of both the lake and the limestone cliff. From the lowest level, the voluminous space featuring double height ceilings. An open concept living, kitchen and dining area boasts picturesque views of the home’s surroundings. The entire dwelling extends to a 160 foot long cantilevered deck along the waterfront.

Material elements integrated into the design of this home encompass: reclaimed flooring from the existing home, custom designed furnishings constructed from industrial parts and stone that was sourced from a quarry the homeowner’s had frequented on their travels.

What We Love: This modern dwelling offers its inhabitants amazing lakeside views and equally amazing design features throughout. We love the entryway pavilion and rooftop deck, a brilliant way to re-design the entryway to this cliffside home. The roof deck offers a fantastic space to relax, unwind and enjoy fresh air… not to mention a great space to entertain guests. We equally admire the open concept living/dining and kitchen areas; with their soaring ceilings and immense windows that frames the views perfectly…. what are features of this home do you find most intriguing?

Have a look through the “Related” links below for some more inspirational house tours from Specht Harpman architects.