Exuding contemporary elegance, this upside-down house was custom-designed by McCollum Studio Architects in partnership with Shoberg Homes and sits perched on a steep hillside in Westview, a quiet residential neighborhood in Austin, Texas. The area is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and a mix of older, charming homes and new builds.
While it overlooks a natural wet-weather creek, this single-family home meets the lifestyle needs of a growing family and suits the challenging site it occupies. Built with sustainable techniques, local materials, and environmental consciousness, this home will serve the family and the surrounding community for many years to come.
DESIGN DETAILS
ARCHITECT McCollum Studio Architects
BUILDER Shoberg Homes
INTERIOR DESIGNER Studio Seiders
AWARDS: AIA Austin Home Tour
Above: A rain chain is used at this flower bed entrance to distribute rainwater more effectively. It also offers aesthetic appeal.
Project Scope
The architects faced a challenging yet distinctive property, allowing them to develop a customized design for this young family. A modern upside-down layout helps disguise the residence’s 5,430 square feet by harmonizing with the steep slope that descends toward a nature preserve and creek.
The design centers on the existing oak trees, creating a natural sense of scale and visual depth while also forming an inviting entry courtyard. The home strikes the perfect balance between privacy and safety through strategic views and passive lighting. Additionally, it features a secluded guest suite on the lower level and a separate bedroom wing for the children.
The impressive entryway looks amazing day or night. The pathway descends around the large oak tree and toward the glass foyer, making the transition from outdoors to indoors almost invisible and imperceptible. The guest should feel seamlessly transported to another world upon entering this grand residence.
The windows throughout this upside-down house are the Weather Shield Contemporary Clad Wood and custom steel windows and doors sourced from Exclusive Windows & Doors of Austin.
What We Love About This Home
This upside-down house in Texas feels fresh, smart, and beautifully designed, with a layout that makes the most of its hillside setting. By flipping the traditional floor plan, the home captures sweeping views and fills the interiors with natural light throughout the day. It’s a thoughtful blend of contemporary style, innovative architecture, and comfortable, everyday livability. One of our favorite features is the swimming pool, which appears to spill over the hillside and takes advantage of the magnificent views.
Tell Us: What are your overall thoughts on the design of this upside-down house? 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: Home Tour: A stunning contemporary Mediterranean-inspired home in Texas and Step into this beautiful Austin home hidden amongst majestic live oaks.
Above: Walking through this home, each space is flooded with natural light, so every color feels radiant and pure. A piece of contemporary artwork graces the hallway as one enters the living room.
Above: This living room offers understated luxury. The wet bar features a gorgeous marble countertop and backsplash for an elevated look.
Above: The large glass walls in the kitchen are positioned to keep an eye on the pool and patio, placing the homeowners at ease and making this a long-term home for years to come. Enjoy a casual dinner with a view featuring Weather Shield Contemporary Aluminum Clad Wood Windows & Doors, Windsor Pinnacle Aluminum Clad Windows & Doors, and Custom Steel Windows & Doors, sourced from Exclusive Windows & Doors of Austin.
Above: Between the layers in the wood, the veins in the marble, and the stains in the mirror, this dining room leaves you feeling inspired. Its warm tones and exciting textures create a captivating visual experience.
Above: Flooring to ceiling windows overlook a tree canopy and beyond to a natural wet weather creek.
Above: The powder room features a floating marble sink.
Above: This home is a prime example of what modern contemporary design can offer. This pool and overlook are the main focus for anyone hanging out here. That’s why there’s no need for any extra flair or outdoor furnishings that would take away from the location’s natural energy. This sumptuous infinity-edge pool was designed by Aqua Builders.
Above: This is the ultimate patio for entertaining and watching sunset views. Built with sustainable and locally sourced materials, this family home will be able to host many outdoor get-togethers for years to come!
PHOTOGRAPHER Jake Holt and Ryann Ford
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