The Constant Springs Residence, with architecture and interiors designed by Alterstudio Architecture, reflects organic modernism with its nature-inspired form. Located in Austin, Texas, the ability to live simultaneously in the center of the city within a quiet refuge presented a powerful opportunity for this family of four.
Within a very ordinary neighborhood, this 3,230-square-foot home is oriented to take maximum advantage of the adjoining escarpment, creek, and the natural views offered at the rear of the property. An H-shaped roof defines a precinct for living by and establishes continuity throughout the property, while more than doubling the livable space to 6,900 square feet under cover.
DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECTURE Alterstudio Architecture INTERIOR DESIGN Alterstudio Architecture CONTRACTOR Chris Hill and Mark Paulsen STRUCTURAL ENGINEER Scott Williamson, PE MECHANICAL ENGINEER Positive Energy LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT BDW Landworks and Construction POOL Jay Scallon Pools
A delicately rendered custom-glazed window wall, accentuated by monolithic corner glazing, connects the interior to the outdoors. Inhabitation is defined between a lush front courtyard and a dynamic expanse of nature behind.
A magnificent live oak with an unusually tall trunk allowed for adjustment of the steep grade. A ubiquitous western red cedar ceiling opens to allow the signature tree to pass through, and an ipe deck permits the penetration of water. A second opening in the ceiling invites light and rain deep into the center of the house.
The house emphasizes a dynamic spatial sequence while simultaneously creating an abstract backdrop for the serendipity of light, reflection, circumstance, and view.
A rich palette of interior materials, furniture, and detailed cabinetry punctuates the ensemble, adding a sense of finesse and offering points of stasis to the compelling and omnipresent out-of-doors.
The straight-grain cedar ceiling and vertical siding, white terrazzo floors, grey Leuders limestone, and custom steel-and-white oak entry door demonstrate great constructional aplomb and detail, all the more remarkable as the owner built it in his first foray into being a general contractor.
Exceptional care was taken with the kitchen in particular. Omnipresent, a stunning Calacatta Lincoln marble countertop waterfalls around a vertical, end-grain white oak kick, while a monumentally scaled, acid-etched mirror backsplash presents a mysteriously luminous backdrop to the life of the house.
What We Love: This nature-inspired home in Austin has so many incredible design elements. We love the curves and the circular cutout in the roof, which preserves the live oak tree on the property. The seamless blend of architecture and landscape creates a calming, organic feel throughout the space. Every detail feels intentional, from the natural materials to the soft, sculptural forms.
Tell Us: What details in the design of this home in Austin, Texas do you find most appealing? Let us know in the Comments below!
Note: Be sure to check out a couple of other fabulous home tours that we have showcased here on One Kindesign in the state of Texas: 1960s midcentury modern home gets an amazing makeover in San Antonio and Inside the incredibly stunning remodel of a 1920s ranch-style Texas house.
PHOTOGRAPHER Casey Dunn Photography
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