Location Austin
Client Stephanie Archer and George Rislov
Architect Nick Deaver Architect
Design Team Nick Deaver, AIA; Adam C. Melius
Contractor Moontower
Structural Engineer Leap!Structures
After finding a 900-sf, 1936 cottage in South Austin, a couple decided they wanted a respectful but decidedly modern reinterpretation of the modest gabled house. As the building was situated between leaning live oaks and a drainage easement to a creek, the renovation introduces new floating terraces to avoid low-hanging branches, allow for surface water flow, and make the landscape part of the architecture. Modern windows and an all-white paint scheme simplify the older structure. An elemental steel and glass 1,000-sf lean-to addition contains a carport, a wide entry gallery, and a screened porch. The new addition, clad in reused galvanized metal, is long and low, contrasting the slightly taller and more symmetrical older home.