PROJECTS PRESS ABOUT CONTACT
  • Year
  • 2018
  • Project
  • Lipan House
  • Type
  • Residential
  • Area
  • 2,800 SF
  • Location
  • Austin, TX
  • Services
  • Design | Construction
  • Photography
  • Andrea Calo
  • About
  • Lipan House is a 2,800-square-foot residence in West Austin composed of two minimalist stone and glass volumes connected by a transparent bridge. The main pavilion rests at the crest of a hill, opening its living spaces toward a linear pool and terrace that capture panoramic views of the surrounding Hill Country. The secondary volume, a studio and office, extends into the wooded slope and offers a quiet retreat overlooking the creek below.
    The design emphasizes clarity, proportion, and restraint. The solid limestone walls anchor the home to the landscape, while expansive glazing introduces lightness and reflection. The glass bridge acts as both connector and threshold, creating a moment of transition where the experience of the site becomes most apparent. Inside, a limited palette of natural materials continues the balance between weight and transparency.

Modern two-story home at dusk with floor-to-ceiling windows wood deck pool and horizontal slat fence
Modern glass-walled bedroom pavilion with rooftop garden, wooden deck, lounge chairs and lushModern two-story home with white stone cladding black trim narrow windows and integrated garage

Atop the main volume, a rooftop deck planted with native vegetation enhances insulation and softens the home’s profile against the sky. This elevated garden becomes a private perch, extending views of the hills while bringing the landscape up to the living level. Together, these elements form a residence that is both grounded and ethereal, an architecture of stillness that heightens awareness of its surroundings.

Rooftop garden terrace with wood deck lounge chair metal railings and lush green plantings
Modern open-plan kitchen with gray wood cabinetry white countertops clerestory windows and floating
Person ascending floating wood staircase with vertical metal rod railings in minimalist whiteModern bathroom with freestanding white tub, double vanity, and large window overlooking trees
Modern two-story house with large glass windows nestled among trees on a grassy hillside at dusk

Work Performed by Bercy Chen Studio

Lipan House