With unparalled views of the every-changing austin skyline, the pemberton place residence is nestled between large heritage oak trees on a rare, one-acre lot in west austin. Pushed back from the street along the edge of a bluff, this modern treehouse slips thru the trees to capture spectacular views across pease district park to the state capitol and downtown.
Project Name: Pemberton Place
Studio Name: Matt Garcia Design
Location: Austin, United States
Photography: Casey Dunn
Completion date: 2016
Building levels: 2
The exterior features a minimal palette of cut limestone, western red cedar and glass. Stone detailing with deep raked horizontal joints along with butted vertical joints and deep roof overhangs give the house a strong horizontal appearance while visually compressing the scale of the structure.
A floating ipe bridge leads guests to the front entry: a double height glass box that serves as a visual connector between the one and two story volume change. The large steel and glass pivot door opens to an ornamental staircase of steel and white oak, which provides a glimpse of the minimal yet complex interior detailing. Rift sawn white oak floors and cabinets paired with venetian plaster walls effortlessly tranisition into floor-to-ceiling steel windows throughout, connecting both the grand and intimate spaces.
The views are slowly revealed as guests make their way through formal spaces culminating in a one-of-a-kind view from the casual sitting room at the far edge of the house. Large ipe decks that float out amongst the trees along with expansive glazing provide a sense of connection from interior to exterior. To maximize energy efficiency, the pemberton place residence utilizes geothermal hvac systems, a photovoltaic array, cellular foam insulation and tankless water heaters.
