Hill Country House: A Modern Take On The Farmhouse
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- October 19, 2021
The Hill Country House, designed as a model for a sustainable rural community, stands as a beacon for what could be: a self-sustaining residence in a rural environment that is essentially self-sufficient in terms of water and electricity. This private property is marked by a succession of jagged roof peaks inspired by the rise and fall of the surrounding hills and is situated on a wide Texas Hill Country meadow. This modern twist on the farmhouse vernacular, dubbed “The Sanctuary” by its owners, an active couple of ordained pastors, and built on a shoestring budget, is a place to bring people together and find spiritual refreshment in a responsible, ecological setting.
Budgets, Flooring And Ceilings Of The Country House
Clean lines, a sculptural gable roof, and a contrasting material palette of corrugated aluminium and warm cypress characterise the home’s façade. The materials, while reflecting the homeowners’ limited budget, also suggest the home’s rural environment. An existing dry-stacked local stone structure on the 47-acre site inspired a tapering limestone chimney. White walls and ceilings are contrasted throughout the interior by thoughtful details such as a limestone hearth in the living room and soapstone counters in the kitchen. The home’s rustic settings are reflected in the pecan floors.
The Hill Country House received a 4-star rating from Austin Energy Green Building, the nation’s first green building programme and the model for the LEED certification system, for its spiritual and environmental design. An 8-kilowatt solar array provides 61% of annual energy consumption. A 5-ton geothermal system provides mechanical heating and cooling. The owner’s annual water needs are met by a 30,000-gallon rainwater collection system.
Indoor And Outdoor Spacings
The creation of places that could accommodate large groups of friends and family, blurring the barrier between indoor and outdoor space, was given special consideration. Warm cypress siding defines a sequence of rooms outside the house, including a temple-like screen porch that extends from the volume containing the main living spaces, breaking up the stark white aluminium cladding at regular intervals. Three to four times a year, a covered outdoor sculpting workshop doubles as a venue for casual summer concerts.
Written By Ankit Lad | Subscribe To Our Telegram Channel To Get Latest Updates And Don’t Forget To Follow Our Social Media Handles Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter. To Get the Latest Updates From Arco Unico