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Contemporary Texas Style
Designers Celebrate the Limestone and Landscape of Texas
During recent trips to the Hill Country region of Texas I've been captivated by the area's architecture and landscaping. Most notably is the liberal use of limestone, which adds natural character and the look of permanence to the buildings built with this stone, a material not often seen in my native Oregon. Then there is the landscaping. When selecting indigenous plants, the exteriors look inviting while being mindful of water conservation. Here's an outsiders perspective on contemporary Texas style.
| When I think of Texas this is exactly where I want to be sitting. Here I can clearly imagine enjoying a delicious meal that would include some tasty Texas BBQ while appreciating the stunning view. |
The view of Lake Travis can't be beat, and the walkable plantings between the slabs of stone create an inviting spot to place lounge chairs.
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Can anyone think of Texas design without envisioning worn metal stars? This star from Texas Lightsmith breaks up the expanse of stone on this home's exterior, adding just the right touch of Texas charm.
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A home of limestone with a pergola-covered patio and old twisted trees surrounding the property sums up my idea of what is best about Texas architecture.
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And tin roofs — I love the look, their practicality and the idea of how rain must sound hitting its surface.
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The rough wood ceiling beams, natural flooring and limestone fireplace surround are rustic elements made contemporary through attention to clean lines and simple furnishings.
This home by Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects is a wonderful example of contemporary Texas style. The deep, wood-lined eaves provide shade...
...while the white interior, with carefully chosen furniture, art and accessories, appears fresh and cool. The combination is the perfect antidote for the hot Texas climate.
The bamboo floor and other natural elements seen in the furniture is balanced by the black steel window frames and staircase. Notice the roller shades hung above the windows. When the sun hits this side of the house these must surely be a necessity.
The entrance to the master bedroom is dramatically addressed with floor to ceiling frosted glass framed in black steel. The design remains inviting through the addition of small pops of color from the vase of flowers and a canvas hung above the bed.
More design ideas from Texas:
See home photos from Austin-area designers
See home photos from Dallas-area designers
More design ideas from Texas:
See home photos from Austin-area designers
See home photos from Dallas-area designers
Comments
kimbersays LOVE the Hugh Jefferson Randolph house. Love it. Limestone is very versatile but I think it looks best in contemporary settings.
2 years ago · Like
MERAV LOVE ALSO THE VIEW. CAN I COPY IT?......
2 years ago · Like
legallyblond I'm from Texas and very used to some of these elements (and about to incorporate many into my remodel.) Interesting to see them from an "outsider's" perspective. Thanks!
2 years ago · Like
Danielle Love the froste glass interior doors, they're beautiful!
2 years ago · Like
hatless1 I love living in the Texas hill Country! I am so often inspired just driving down the road.
2 years ago · Like
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greduvel love it
2 years ago · Like
Nan We lived there for 6 months and every house has the Lone Star! Outside of Tx I'm wondering about the next popular outside decor piece we'll see on houses... sun bursts? They're becoming a fixture in many homes, will they eventually be on the outside? Thanks for memory lane Janell! Did you get to Fredricksburg? Very old architecture.
2 years ago · Like
jessb4 Your outsiders perspective was right on!! All of the materials mentioned are some of the things we love about being in the hill country. Hope you had a wonderful trip! 
2 years ago · Like
j9pers As a native Texan, I'd like to say "thank you" for showing the rest of the world that Texas is so much more than big hair, rodeos and tacky soap operas! From the amazing art deco architecture of Fair Park and I. M. Pei's Myerson symphony center in Dallas to Philip Johnson's Ft. Worth water gardens, Texas has some of the most beautiful architecture in the country. The hill country has breathtaking views and a "feel" that is found no where else in the world. Thanks again for spotlighting some of the best of Texas.
2 years ago · Like
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lyndacarriermetz I am having an exterior limestone 36" round table top made. I need ideas on what to build the base of and if rot iron, any style suggestions? Pictures are appreciated too. I also want to build a gathering table for the outdoor kitchen. Does anyone have pics of limestone style table?
2 years ago · Like
pencilshavings The "tin" roof is a standing seam roof, and it's made of steel. They last a long time in part because the fasteners are hidden, so they aren't subject to rust, and they come in various colors. 
2 years ago · Like
Valerie Bowles Thanks for the outsider's perspective, but when you say Texas, you mean Austin and surrounding hill country. You don't get these stunning views anywhere else in the state. As for our architects, well they're just world class.
2 years ago · Like
Ideabook published on March 19, 2011.
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