Jenkins Custom Homes was responsible for the design of this three-story ship-inspired home built in the floodplains near Lake Travis in Austin, Texas. Crafted like a ship in the sky, this project was designed for one of the few female ship captains in Texas. She is well-known in the shipping community for her skill and grace in guiding large vessels down narrow passageways. This home was designed to foster her love for the water and its vessels. She told the project team of her desire to entertain her 12 friends in a home that reminded her of her love for the water.
Originally, she intended to sell her plot of land, but when discussing it with the architects, her aspirations began to change. As they spoke, the lead architect drew out on a napkin his ideas for what her house could look like, using the existing site conditions and tying in his recently-acquired knowledge of her chosen profession. As they spoke and he continued to draw, she fell in love with the idea. This project quickly became one of the architect’s most favorite home’s to date.
With the living quarters hovering 21-feet above the ground, due to the floodplain height, the lower floor became the ideal outdoor living, kitchen, and pool area. The home rises a total of 50 feet in the air with a 3-story elevator to accommodate its owners. The interior boasts of designs that replicate the hull of a large ship, with nautical themes and structural designs throughout to bring the owner back to her natural habitat.
Many of the doors and the surrounding wood paneling have circular carvings to replicate ship portholes. The main dining area has rounded walls with a large circular table and a wine wall with a ladder to rotate around the bent wall. This nautical theme was enhanced by the multitude of lake views visible throughout her “Ship in the Sky”.
What We Love: This ship-inspired home offers a unique design that is reminiscent of a ship that’s ready to sail! The project team did a fantastic job of creating a home that is befitting of a career oil tanker captain. Elevating the living space 50-feet off the ground helps to create the illusion of a floating vessel. Just like the lay of a ship, the vertical alignment of this home helps to capture the views of both the lake and Texas hill country from each side… Readers, what are your thoughts on the overall design of this home. Do you like it’s unique concept? Tell us why or why not in the Comments below!
Note: Have a look at another home tour that we have featured here on One Kindesign from the portfolio of the architects of this project, Jenkins Custom Homes: Step inside this vineyard farmhouse in Texas that made our jaws drop.
Photos: Tre Dunham
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