A Minimalist House Wedged Between A Steep Ravine And A Charming Garden

Establishing a good connection with the surroundings is important for every house but more so if the site benefits from gorgeous views or an unusual topography. The Sugar Shack Residence was designed by Alterstudio Architecture  and is located in Austin, Texas, sitting between a steep ravine and a beautiful garden.

Its design, interior organization and orientation have been influences by exterior factors such as the surrounding landscape and, by extension, the views. The windows throughout the house have been strategically positioned to block neighboring views while at the same time maximizing the views and natural light that enter the spaces.

Both the interior and the exterior design of the house are in sync with the surroundings
Both the interior and the exterior design of the house are in sync with the surroundings
The interior spaces follow a linear organization meant to ensure privacy and to maximize the views
The interior spaces follow a linear organization meant to ensure privacy and to maximize the view
The transition and general connection between the indoor and outdoor is natural and seamless
The transition and general connection between the indoor and outdoor is natural and seamless
The social area opens up to a pool, lounge deck and outdoor kitchen space
The social area opens up to a pool, lounge deck and outdoor kitchen space
Large windows maximize the view of the landscape and natural sunlight
Large windows maximize the view of the landscape and natural sunlight

Like in most contemporary homes, the living and dining area share an open floor plan and have access to the garden, an outdoor kitchen and a swimming pool. As far as the interior design in general is concerned, the Sugar Shack Residence uses a palette of light and dark materials and natural finishes including steel, oak and raw concrete, pleasant textures as well as colors and patterns which contrast with each other but also complement each other harmoniously. The main focus remains on the architecture and the landscape.

The interior design is modern, chic and vibrant, featuring a dynamic palette of colors, patterns and textures
The interior design is modern, chic and vibrant, featuring a dynamic palette of colors, patterns and textures
The dining area is part of an open space but has its own cozy seating nook
The dining area is part of an open space but has its own cozy seating nook
The indoor kitchen has an L-shaped plan with minimalist cabinetry and a white central island
The indoor kitchen has an L-shaped plan with minimalist cabinetry and a white central island
Large openings, windows and glass partitions help to ensure a seamless transition between spaces
Large openings, windows and glass partitions help to ensure a seamless transition between spaces
The overall structure and design of the house are influenced by the topography and landscape
The overall structure and design of the house are influenced by the topography and landscape
The materials used both inside and out give the house a modern and homely appearance
The materials used both inside and out give the house a modern and homely appearance