E2211 Urban Retreat, Austin Real Estate Project, Texas Home, American Modern Architecture Images
E2211 Urban Retreat in Austin
post updated April 1, 2024
Architect, Builder, Developer: Ravel Architecture
Location: Austin, Texas, USA
E2211 is an urban retreat in Austin Texas that was developed, designed, and built by Ravel Architecture.
Photos by Chase Daniel
Jan 14, 2021
E2211 Urban Retreat
A poured-in-place concrete wall serves as a boundary to a private north facing entry garden. The building is justified to the back of the lot in order to maximize the outdoor space. Large double story glazing connects the dining area and courtyard for indoor/outdoor feel.
The home features a semi-connected kitchen with built-in appliances – for entertaining and discreet conversation zones. The ground floor master has exterior access and unique combination bathroom-closet. The second floor den overlooks the dining room out to the northern yard.
A southern clerestory window balances light throughout the year, helping to provide natural illumination to every room in the house. Hand made rift-sawn white oak cabinetry is featured throughout the home.
What was the brief?
Since Ravel Architecture were the developers of the project, (and their own clients!) the brief was for them to design a home that would be worthy of long-term care. Ravel Architecture wanted to make a statement about how more housing should be developed directly by architects.
What were the key challenges?
The lot is small for Austin, typical lots are about 50% bigger. The home fronts Austin’s Light-Rail which many developers see as a risk.
What were the solutions?
The building was pushed to the back of the lot and a concrete wall was placed at the front in order to maximize the privacy of the yard and ensure that large openings were possible and private. The concrete wall also creates a sound barrier for the periodic passing of the train. We actually really enjoy seeing the train pass from the second floor loft.
Who are the clients and what’s interesting about them?
Ravel Architecture are the clients for the project. This is interesting because this project is an example of an architect-led development. They wouldn’t call the project “no-compromise” as they do have restrictions, but think its a great example of “low-compromise”
What are the sustainability features?
The home features low maintenance metal siding, spray foam insulation, a high efficiency zoned HVAC, natural light in every room. SOLAR ready
How is the project unique?
This project is unique because it is an example of an Architect-led home development. The project serves as an example of a higher standard of development that can be achieved when buildings are developed by Architects instead of just developers.
The Bear Production Studio in Austin, TX, USA – Building Information
Architect, Builder, Developer: Ravel Architecture
Project size: 2179 ft2
Site size: 4123 ft2
Completion date: 2020
Building levels: 2
Photography: Chase Daniel
The Bear Production Studio, Austin, Texas information / images received 140121
Location: Austin, Texas, USA
Architecture in Texas
Main Stay House in Austin
Design: Matt Fajkus Architecture
photograph : Charles Davis Smith
Tree House in Austin
Design: Matt Fajkus Architecture
photos from Brian Mihealsick, Bryant Hill, Twist Tours
Austin Buildings
Contemporary Austin Houses – selection:
Annie Residence in Austin
Design: Bercy Chen Studio, Architects
photo from architects
Carved Cube House in Austin
Design: Bercy Chen Studio, Architects
photograph: Paul Bardagjy
West Lake Hills Residence – Austin Home
Design: Specht Harpman
photo : Casey Dunn
American Architecture Designs
American Architectural Designs – recent selection from e-architect:
America Architecture News – latest building updates
Comments / photos for the The Bear Production Studio, Austin, Texas, USA Architecture page welcome