Project Description
Located in a wooded setting adjacent to the fast growing City of Tyler, this home produces a strong connection to the outdoors and reflects the indigenous structures of rural East Texas through form and materials. The modern aesthetic is a catalyst for forward thinking design in the area. The home serves as a gathering space for a large extended family spanning four generations. It is also used for entertaining friends, social events, and business groups. Generous sweeping overhangs provide shaded areas for entry and entertaining as well as solar protection for the large expanses of glazing that connect interior to the exterior. The plan is organized around a large exterior terrace with connections to public spaces, master suite, and Mother-in-law’s suite. The living, dining, kitchen, and den functions are large open interconnected spaces providing a sense of inclusion and flow for the users. Much of the structure is a steel framework with structural wood decking, which provides large volumes of space. A Daiken HVAC system, LED Lighting, and Crestron controls are utilized to manage energy consumption. Steel, stone, metal wall panels, aluminum windows, and metal roofing are used on the exterior for longevity and lack of required maintenance. Additional insulation and energy efficient glazing ensure low energy consumption in spite of the very open appearance. Operable awning windows are placed low in the walls for air flow throughout the home. The attention to limiting energy consumption resulted in energy usage of approximately 60% of comparable structures.