RIDGEWOOD RESIDENCE

The Ridgewood Residence is a carefully-composed interpretation of a classic Mid-Century Modern house by A.D. Stenger. The horizontality of the original design, low-pitched roof and unique fireplace form are respected in the adaption, and the simple material selections are based on the original palette, while also providing an updated enhancement.

Built on a sloped lot, the house negotiates the topography with 4 distinct terraced foundation levels. Public and private realms are separated on either side of the floor plan, with the primary staircase and other steps as the manifold between. To accommodate the additional square footage requested by the client, the design proposes two new wings extending into the backyard. These additions carefully navigate around the large existing trees on the lot, while also providing direct connection with tree canopies, in line with Mid-Century Modernism’s celebration of nature. The new design aims to reinforce and rejuvenate the classic original house, both in programmatic layout and through intangible experience.

The common areas are reconfigured around a new central courtyard deck with the kitchen and dining area open to the living space, allowing for social cooking and entertaining. New windows are designed to optimize daylight harvesting and views through the leafy lot.

Location: Austin, Texas | Phase: Completion 2018 | Architecture Team: Matt Fajkus, David Birt, Alberto Rodriguez, Jeffrey McCord, Travis Cook | General Contractor: Miars Construction | Photography Logistic Support: Nitsche Events | Photography: Leonid Furmansky