New construction that needs to reflect the requirements and desires of the owners, both corporate executives, one an ex-ballerina and the other a computer scientist, that would include space for their interests and their extended family. Childless, with devoted pets, the owners wanted the project to be animal-friendly throughout. Relocating from New England, they also wanted a ‘Great Room/ Kitchen’ to serve as the backbone to all other rooms and anchor their house, situated high on a limestone ridge.
To address individual needs, a significant exercise area and, because of constant travel, a special area for luggage, packing/unpacking and laundry were set aside. Another individualized space was a media room with a wall of aquariums. Both were given a fully equipped office from which to track work while at home. Safe and comfortable guest quarters on the main floor level were created for aging parents.
Reminiscent of their life in New England, Douglas fir beams, hewn and pegged by hand, soar above native Texas stone in the kitchen/great room. Live oaks just outside appear to grow in the polished granite counters, while close by lichen-clad, dry-stack sandstone provides a practical front for the Texas-size bar. Rustic, forged-iron lighting alludes to the Spanish ancestors who once lived and fought in this area. The master suite encompasses a ‘His and Her’ bath that allows, soaking, showering, make-up, steaming, and dressing all with a Hill Country view. Plain cherry cabinets and quarter-sawn, oak plank floors complete a quiet statement in tribute to the rugged beauty and simplicity of the owner’s former New England roots and their adopted hill country state. |
