Retama House by A Parallel Architecture.

Taking cues from its immediate environment, Retama House by A Parallel Architecture accentuates vistas towards the landscape to emulate a tree house typology.

Located in Austin, Texas, Retama House establishes a unique dialogue with its surroundings by embracing its natural context. A Parallel Architecture’s focus was to respond to both the spatial and environmental constraints of the site by unfolding the narrative of an existing split oak tree.

A Parallel Architecture’s focus was to respond to both the spatial and environmental constraints of the site by unfolding the narrative of an existing split oak tree.

With connection being the primary theme, the brief required the home to respond to an indoor-outdoor liveability, and the architects skilfully maximised natural light and dramatic vistas to the exterior beyond. The result is an innovative approach to modern design, where blended functionality and aesthetics are left to reveal an open and fluid layout.

From its external to its interior aesthetics, the home embodies a minimalistic material palette, which is dominated by timber, concrete and vast amounts of glazing. The exterior is clad in locally sourced FSC-certified, thermally modified wood siding and complemented with panels created with Greengard and FSC-certified recycled paper.

The double-storey form is assembled around a central atrium that provides harmony between the two levels and an ever-changing array of light.

The double-storey form is assembled around a central atrium that provides harmony between the two levels and an ever-changing array of light. The atrium functions as a double-height void with framed views for guests upon entry. The space continually creates visual links between the communal zones and allows direct access to the deck, lap pool, rear lawn and front court. Internally, the ground floor fosters a sense of spaciousness and maintains an uncluttered aesthetic. As occupants move through the space, they encounter a floating staircase on a brick backdrop, leading to the upper level. The bedrooms and a study are nestled around the tree canopy and enjoy an interplay of light and shadows.

Through careful configuration and considering the lives of the inhabitants, the architects ensure each interior space has an integral relationship with the landscape, neighbourhood and city beyond.

Architecture by A Parallel Architecture. Build by Arrowhead Construction. Landscape architecture by Spencer Landscape Company.

‘Each interior space has an integral relationship with the landscape, neighbourhood, and city beyond.’