Bevel House West Lake Hills, Texas residence design, TX accommodation architecture photos, Contemporary US property mages

Bevel House in Texas

September 24,2023

Location: West Lake Hills, Texas, United States

Design: Dick Clark + Associates

Photos by Paul Bardagjy

Bevel House, Texas, USA

Nestled among the dramatic landscape of West Lake Hills, Texas, this home blends with the natural topography and dense tree cover that defines this unique community. The design reflects a commitment to site-specific excellence, with a linear layout that gracefully angles to follow the contours of the slope. This defining feature, known as the “bevel,” served as a guiding principle, creating angled valley-side walls that frame breathtaking views of the rolling landscape and homes beyond.

This concept of the bevel is carried throughout the design, subtly echoed in meticulous details. The chosen materials – stucco, pre-finished metal siding, and a distinctive limestone with fossilized shells and ammonites – imbue the home with texture and character. Just moments from the vibrant heart of Austin, this residence is a tranquil retreat, a sanctuary for relaxation that combines the serenity of nature with the functionality and comfort of modern living.

What was the brief?

Our client entrusted us to craft a sophisticated 3-bedroom residence nestled within a secluded property in the hill country. Their vision was to capture the expansive views of the hillside while maintaining privacy from the busy road nearby. They desired a quiet sanctuary away from the noise and bustle of the city, and a modern home that was both welcoming and stunning. To accomplish this, we needed to find the balance between remarkable attention to detail and design, and the welcoming warmth that makes a home, creating a space that is elegant yet understated.

What were the key challenges and their solutions?

Navigating the property posed an initial challenge given its proximity to the busy road out front. Therefore, there was a lot of consideration given to craft an inviting and seamless arrival experience. To counterbalance the high ceilings in the main living area, wood ceilings were used to infuse the space with warmth.

To respond to the sloping hillside of the site, a linear design was needed, which allowed us to transform the hallways into gallery space flooded with indirect natural light from the continuous clerestory windows and high wood ceilings.

Additionally, the integration of floor-to-ceiling windows at the end of every hall and vantage point helped maintain a strong visual connection to the outdoor surroundings and natural daylight.

How is the project unique?

Named after its floor plan, this home earns its namesake through the distinctive canted walls in the great room and within each bedroom. These create smaller, intimate spaces on one side and wider, generous areas on the other, all oriented to capture panoramic hillside views. This beveled motif is echoed throughout the house, from the kitchen island to the pool, lending a cohesive and striking aesthetic.

What truly sets this home apart are its subtle yet purposeful design elements. A backsplash window in the kitchen provides a clear view of arriving guests, while a clever notch in the carport wall accommodates bike storage. The carport not only offers ample guest parking, but also extends the roof articulation, adding to the architectural vision. The primary bath boasts a full glass wall in front of a freestanding tub, creating a spa-like retreat.

One of the most beloved features is the interstitial space in the hallway gallery. This space has been transformed into a cozy reading nook with a see-through fireplace on one side, a study to the other, and a full window of hillside views. Here, the fireplace seamlessly connects the living room and reading area, creating a space of warmth and relaxation.

Bevel House, Texas, USA – Property Information

Project size: 3790 sq ft
Completion date: 2015

Photographer: Paul Bardagjy

Bevel House, Texas, USA accommodation images / information received 240923 from Dick Clark + Associates

Location: West Lake Hills, TX, USA

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