This kind of minimalist-leaning, industrial contemporary isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s a favorite of ours. There’s something about the way it tucks into its site—especially important for this one, located in a fairly crowded area of Central Austin just northwest of the UT campus—that’s appealing. It can call attention to and make one appreciate the materials its made of—in this case Cor-Ten steel and ipe, among other things—in a way that’s not overbearing.
Chris Cobb, Charles Di Piazza, Andrew Fulcher, designed the home, which has been featured in many design magazines and on the 2015 Austin AIA Homes Tour. It measures 1,601 square feet and features double-paned glass, oak floors, Douglas fir ceiling areas, hidden built-ins in living room and kitchen, and a drought-resistant landscaping by Ten Eyck.
The two-story house takes advantage of a narrow site with existing and new natural elements. The living and dining spaces open onto a generous porch that frames the large heritage oak tree on the site. It has two bedrooms and two bathrooms, as well as a private courtyard and roof deck off the bedroom loft.
• 2906 Rio Grande Street [Estately]