Rollingwood Residence by A Parallel Architecture

Words by Peter Bain
Photography by Chase Daniel
Photography by Casey Dunn

A Parallel Architecture’s Rollingwood Residence transforms a busy Texas neighbourhood lot into a family haven that embraces its natural surroundings. Designed for a young family, this home balances privacy with connectivity, creating a serene retreat.

The carefully composed facade offers a quiet, durable backdrop to the verdant shade trees and lush front lawn. The serene exterior masks a dynamic interior where interconnected spaces invite warmth and comfort. Upon entering, the floating wood ceiling of the kitchen draws the eye upwards, with high clerestory windows framing views of the heritage tree’s canopy and the ever-changing sky. The translucent glass wall, separating the kitchen from the centrally located home office, ensures constant family connectivity throughout the day.

The serene exterior masks a dynamic interior where interconnected spaces invite warmth and comfort.

The living room, anchored by a Roman brick fireplace, features bronze channel glass panels that reveal a hidden entertainment cabinet, adding a touch of intrigue. Wall-to-wall sliding glass doors open to the backyard, where an outdoor fireplace, rain garden and living pavilion transform the space into a versatile retreat. This pavilion extends over the rolling lawn and can convert into a fully screened porch, adapting to the family’s needs.

The primary bedroom, with its panoramic view of the backyard oasis, is a haven of calm, while the bath enjoys views of a private garden. Ascending the floating stairs, a glass-walled family room overlooks the neighbourhood street, providing a perfect perch for observing daily life. The playroom, equipped with a chalkboard-clad sliding wall, offers flexibility, allowing it to be separated from the bedroom hallway. This hallway leads to the guest suite, which boasts a private terrace overlooking a heritage pecan tree, enhancing the dwelling’s connection to nature.

The design also prioritised retaining heritage oaks and pecan trees, using them to provide shade and privacy.

Sustainability was a central element of the design process. A thorough site analysis informed the siting strategy, which embraced existing tree coverage and mitigated stormwater to ease drainage on neighbouring homes. The design also prioritised retaining heritage oaks and pecan trees, using them to provide shade and privacy.

The house aligns with prevailing weather patterns and the site’s solar orientation, with outdoor spaces designed for sunlight control and comfortable living. Rainwater harvesting systems and detention basins capture all on-site rainwater, reducing runoff, mitigating the urban heat island effect and providing habitat for local wildlife.

Rollingwood Residence exemplifies thoughtful design and natural beauty.

Rollingwood Residence exemplifies thoughtful design and natural beauty. The home’s integration with its environment and attention to detail create a comfortable, welcoming space for family living.

Architecture by A Parallel Architecture. Build by Shoberg Homes. Landscape design by A Parallel Architecture and Spencer Landscape Company.