The Westbrook residence offers an alternative architectural model for the sprawling post-war suburbs of Austin, Texas. It embraces the demographic shifts of this once modest neighborhood while preserving its low-rise character. In a community where many properties maximize their allowed floor area ratio (FAR) through extensive new construction, this 3,494-square-foot home maintains the historic style with its modest scale and street presence.
Its carefully crafted exterior presents a contemporary atmosphere that aligns with the neighborhood’s newly recognized value. By prioritizing a lower building-to-garden ratio, the residence allows its occupants to feel immersed in nature, seamlessly blending with the surrounding lush gardens.
Four brick and stone volumes surround the central living area, which opens directly to the adjacent landscape. The public space sits between these buildings, featuring floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows beneath continuous ceilings. The brick and stone structures are composed of limestone bricks and steel framed openings, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Above and around these spaces, a steel-clad volume encloses the structure. Strategically placed light wells introduce natural light and unexpected views, enlivening the interior.
This home’s interior is defined by two contrasting spatial experiences. The brick and stone structures create private, enclosed rooms that stand apart from the rest of the house. At the same time, the spaces in between form dynamic, flowing public areas that connect directly to the outdoors.
This arrangement allows families to move fluidly between traditional and modern living environments, selecting spaces that suit their mood and needs.
The project distributes its functions across thoughtfully sized, single-story residential buildings. This design encourages families to spend their later years in their original homes, surrounded by nature yet close to neighbors and the conveniences of Austin city.
While the community’s value continues to rise and new houses eventually replace existing ones, the design team envisions this residence as a model for future development—one where residents can enjoy both a connection to nature and proximity to their neighbors.
Project Drawings
△ General layout plan
△ Floor plan
△ Analysis diagram
△ Sectional perspective
Project Information
Architect: Alterstudio Architecture
Area: 3,494 m²
Project Year: 2024
Photographer: Casey Dunn
Design Team: Kevin Alter (Partner), Ernesto Cragnolino (Partner), Tim Whitehill (Partner), Will Powell (Project Architect), Michael Woodland (Project Architect), Shelley McDavid (Project Architect), Haifa Hammami (Interiors)
Main Contractor: Wilde Custom Homes
Structural Engineer: MJ Structures
Landscape Architect: Shademaker Studio
Location: Austin, USA
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