Tucked Away Treasures – The Jewelbox by Citizen Artist and Mell Lawrence Architects

Nestled among the live oak trees of Austin, Texas, The Jewelbox stands as a considered blend of European traditional craft and congenial Texan charm. Citizen Artist and Mell Lawrence Architects combine to reimagine the familiar timber clad cabin form, taking inspiration from its surrounding landscape and a rural yet refined sensibility.

Deliberately flexible, The Jewelbox is intended as a multifunctional addition to the main residence, offering itself as a retreat and place of play. Able to be opened fully and used as the stage, the form takes on an elemental approach, akin to how every object as a child was interacted with through a lens of curiosity. As a celebration of the human experience and the need to connect, the ability for the form to feel both expansive and retracted as needed was formative to the brief. Located near the bustling and central South Congress area, this sanctuary pays homage to a uniquely Austin vernacular whilst also integrating inspired nods to a more enduring and European sensibility.

Able to be opened fully and used as the stage, the form takes on an elemental approach, akin to how every object as a child was interacted with through a lens of curiosity.

As a cabin in the woods, the proposal fulfils a dream of the owners of being able to have their own sanctuary on the site that would also serve as an independent dwelling for guests. Its location in proximity to the main home also ensures that they can open the home further to entertain on a grander scale. Similar to a floating cube, the lofted upper level tucks in additional amenity without needing to disturb the purity of the overall form. Facilitating a balance with the natural elements remains true in all larger and smaller gestures across the site, with deep foundations anchoring the structure in place. The mix of permanence and a temporary cabin feel add an approachability that the owners wanted for guests.

Maximising the indoor and outdoor connection, double-height steel and glass doors encourage natural light inward, with the additional layer of linen softening the transition. Throughout, a curation of treasured pieces collected in Europe give an animation to the spaces and bring a handmade touch into the smaller and more intimate moments. Fusing a French farmhouse inspiration into the kitchen, a feeling of warmth is felt, with expressed junctions echoing the simplicity of a more rural setting. Ensuring disconnection on an amplified scale, the outlooks and openings have been aligned with the best views, with lush greenery and landscape buffering the area around.

Located near the bustling and central South Congress area, this sanctuary pays homage to a uniquely Austin vernacular whilst also integrating inspired nods to a more enduring and European sensibility.

The Jewelbox remains true to its name – a concealed and discoverable box of treasures. By focussing on openness and separation, Citizen Artist and Mell Lawrence Architects create a unique response to both the site and the brief.