Constant Springs Residence / Alterstudio Architecture

Constant Springs Residence / Alterstudio Architecture

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  • Architect In Charge: Kevin Alter, Ernesto Cragnolino, Tim Whitehill, Joseph Boyle, Michael Woodland, Sara Mays
  • Structural Engineer: Scott Williamson
  • Contractor: Chris Hill, Mark Paulsen
  • City: Austin
  • Country: United States
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Constant Springs Residence / Alterstudio Architecture - Image 2 of 18
© Casey Dunn

Text description provided by the architects. The opportunity to live simultaneously in the center of the city and in an isolated refuge presented a powerful circumstance for this family of four.  Within a very ordinary neighborhood, this home is oriented to take maximum advantage of the unexpected escarpment, creek and natural views offered at the rear of the property.

Constant Springs Residence / Alterstudio Architecture - Image 11 of 18
© Casey Dunn

An unmitigated roof defines a precinct for living and creates continuity throughout the property while a delicate custom-glazed window wall, accentuated by monolithic corner glazing, connects the interior to the outdoors.  Inhabitation is here defined between a lush front courtyard and a dynamic expanse of nature behind it.

Constant Springs Residence / Alterstudio Architecture - Image 3 of 18
© Casey Dunn
Constant Springs Residence / Alterstudio Architecture - Image 16 of 18
Plan
Constant Springs Residence / Alterstudio Architecture - Image 10 of 18
© Casey Dunn

A magnificent live oak with an unusually tall trunk allowed for adjustment of the steep grade.  The ubiquitous Cedar ceiling opens to allow the tree to pass through, and an Ipe deck permits the penetration of water.  A second opening in the ceiling invites light and rain deep into the center of the house.  The house emphasizes a dynamic spatial sequence while at the same time creating an abstract backdrop for the serendipity of light, reflection, circumstance and view. 

Constant Springs Residence / Alterstudio Architecture - Image 13 of 18
© Casey Dunn

Inside, a rich palette of materials, furniture and detailed cabinetry punctuate the ensemble to add a sense of finesse and offer points of stasis to the compelling and omnipresent out-of-doors.  Here, a straight-grain, Western Red Cedar ceiling and vertical siding, white Terrazzo floors, grey Leuders limestone and a custom steel-and-White Oak entry door demonstrate great constructional aplomb and detail — all the more special as it was built by the owner in his first foray into being a general contractor. 

Constant Springs Residence / Alterstudio Architecture - Image 4 of 18
© Casey Dunn

Exceptional care was taken with the kitchen in particular. Omnipresent, a stunning Calacatta Lincoln marble countertop waterfalls around a vertical, end-grain White Oak kick, while a monumentally scaled, acid-etched mirror backsplash presents a mysteriously luminous backdrop to the life of the house.

Constant Springs Residence / Alterstudio Architecture - Image 9 of 18
© Casey Dunn

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Cite: "Constant Springs Residence / Alterstudio Architecture" 05 Jan 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/909435/constant-springs-residence-alterstudio-architecture> ISSN 0719-8884

© Casey Dunn

恒春居所 / Alterstudio Architecture

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