• Year
• 2014
• Project
• Tetra House
• Type
• Residential
• Area
• 3,000 SF
• Location
• Austin, TX
• Services
• Design
• About

• Tetra House is tucked into the vibrant fabric of South Austin. Designed as a quiet inward-looking retreat, the home centers on a private courtyard with a pool, gravel garden, and Japanese maples that filter dappled light throughout the day.
  Inspired by the constructivist compositions of El Lissitzky, the design explores the tension between alignment and displacement. A series of layered volumes and surfaces intersect and overlap without ever fully coinciding. This strategy minimizes the home’s presence along the streetscape while creating a sequence of intentional vantage points within and around the house.
  The lower level is defined by poured-in-place concrete walls that act as spatial anchors and datum lines across the site. Above, a collection of floating wood boxes contrasts the solidity of the concrete, their warmth and texture softening the home’s formal geometry. Glazing weaves between these two material layers, bringing light and reflection into constant play.

Work Performed by Bercy Chen Studio