Modest, thick-walled stone structure built in 1871 that sits within view of the castle on the hill

Architects: Jobe Corral Architects
Location: Austin, United States
Year: 2016
Photo courtesy: Jobe Corral Architects
Description:

“Overlooking downtown Austin, this project sits within view of the castle on the hill that was once the Texas Military Institute. The historic portion of the home is a modest, thick-walled stone structure built in 1871 and was originally occupied by the headmaster of the Institute.

As a private residence, many owners have adapted the simple building to better suit their needs. Our work is a renovation of the original historic structure, a breakfast room and three-story addition built in the 1970s, over one hundred years after the original. New skin, insulation, mechanical systems, and lighting increase the energy efficiency of the house. The expansive yard was reorganized around the new pool to create a calming, urban oasis for the owners.

The goal was to strip away as much additive material as possible and recreate the relationship between the historic house and the additions. Working completely within the confines of the building as presented, we reassembled the materials and details in such a way to quiet the chaos of 150 years of complicated adaptation.”