By Nico Saieh — via:archdialy
© Art Gray
Architects: Andersson Wise Architects
Location: Duval County, Texas, USA
Project Team: Arthur Andersson, Chris Wise, Matthew Ames, Wenny Hsu, Leland Ulmer
Contractor: J.E. Kingham Construction
Project Year: 2009
Photographs: Art Gray
master house floor plan
Temple Ranch is the seasonal retreat for its owners, who have for two decades passionately worked to manage, restore, and preserve the native habitat of this place. The primeval qualities of nature, the sun and wind, broad sky, and rocky hard earth define South Texas. Everything that exists in this environment is essential. Trees, scrub, and wildflowers have evolved to subsist on little water, withstand a scorching brilliant sun, and icy winds. But as nature would have it, this environment is home to a bountiful population of native quail and deer that has been deemed some of the best in the southwest.
© Art Gray
The Temple Ranch building program outlined the importance of making buildings that promote social interaction and quiet contemplation. We considered the gentle sloping terrain, natural air-conditioning offered by prevailing breezes, and the ever-present sun. Our observations transformed into an idea of structures with deep open porches that appear to be carved out of the exterior brick volumes, revealing transparent walls that slide open to the rooms inside. The buildings are organized around an open courtyard with a large swimming pool and spa, oriented to take advantage of the prevailing breezes during the hot Texas summers.
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
© Art Gray
site plan
master house floor plan
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