Andersson / Wise

Lake House

Lake House
© Paul Bardagjy

Lake House

Andersson Wise Architects

YEAR
2009

LOCATION
Travis, United States

CATEGORY
Houses

Text description provided by architect.

This structure, located on the steeply sloped bank of Lake Austin, is designed for downtime.

Lake House
© Paul Bardagjy
Lake House
© Paul Bardagjy

A nearly mile-long path leads the visitor down the hill, over a suspension bridge constructed of individual segments strung onto cables that spans a ravine, and finally down to the boat house. The simple, elegant building rises above the water, resting on the surface like a water skater.

And like the surface-skimming insect, this off-the-grid domicile exerts a minimal impact on its surroundings. Its structure, fabricated into a single framework of steel and barged to the site, is anchored into rock beneath the water.

A floating carpenter shop was used to complete the construction from the water side. Breezes from the lake-top enter and exit through screens allowing the living spaces to breathe along with the river valley.

Lake House
© Paul Bardagjy
Lake House
© Paul Bardagjy

The wind and water combine to provide natural cooling for the entire structure. On the north and east sides, the lower screens swing out creating full-height openings making impromptu diving platforms.

The boat house provides a respite from the exhaustions of heat and the exertion of swimming, but it constantly reminds occupants of their proximity.

Lake House
© Paul Bardagjy


Lake House
Lower Floor Plan
Lake House
Upper Floor Plan


Lake House
Section

Andersson / Wise
T +1 512 4765780
Andersson / Wise
807 Brazos St #800, Austin, TX 78701, United States