Austin, TX, is a vibrant city with a renowned live music scene, nature outposts for everything from biking to boating, and outstanding dining. In keeping with the city’s motto, “Keep Austin Weird,” you can also find an eclectic and thriving visual arts culture, as well as a range of architectural styles that run from Queen Anne Victorian to Craftsman-style bungalows. Modern, sculptural architecture is booming in Austin, too. A swell of contemporary homes offer walls of floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views, open floor plans, and custom features galore. This gorgeous contemporary home remodeled by LaRue Architects is a gorgeous example.
Located in Rollingwood, this 6,600-square-foot abode sits on two adjoining lots with an unobstructed view of downtown Austin. Originally designed as a five-bedroom house, the home just underwent a complete remodel. It also boasts six-and-a-half baths. “We originally designed the house as a new build that was completed in 2015,” says James LaRue, founder of LaRue Architects.
The initial construction was done by Greg Reynolds of Reynolds Custom Homes, with Shoberg Custom Homes coming in for the later renovation. “Kelle Contine Interior Design provided an interior remodel,” adds James, “and the floor plan stayed primarily the same — mostly new finishes.” While the design draws inspiration from Northeastern farmhouses, the home is site-driven, taking full advantage of the landscape and incorporating signature Texan elements like Texas Lueders limestone.
The first thing one sees upon entering the residence is an expansive view of Downtown — and a skyline for days. Designed in the shape of an “H,” the layout offers a central living area that connects everything, and beautiful, cozy spaces abound.
“The living and dining spaces are connected, and an away room (originally designed for a piano) is separated by a see-through fireplace with a suspended chimney,” James explains. “The away room is closest to the street side of the home, and the stair to the lower apartment is located in this quadrant. The kitchen and soft seating are opposite the main living space, divided by a free-standing bar. Another flex space, currently designed as the music room, is on the Downtown side of the home, and there is access to the outdoor living porch and pool. All secondary bedrooms (besides the lower apartment) are on the upper floor.”
If we had to pick only one, the home’s standout feature would most certainly be its floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Surrounding nearly every main room, they offer up unparalleled, memorable views. “The primary bedroom is located closest to Downtown and is cantilever above the yard below,” says James. “It almost [appears that] it is floating in the treetops.” The bedroom also offers an unobstructed view of the swimming pool, which overlooks the lush property beyond.
All photography courtesy of Chase Daniel.
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