Project: Jewell Box House
Architecture: Mell Lawrence Architects
Project Team: Mell Lawrence, Hector Martell, Morgan Parker
Location: Austin, Texas, United States
Year: 2019
Photo Credits: Nathan Kirkman, Leonid Furmansky
The Jewell Box House, designed by Mell Lawrence Architects, is more than just a building; it’s an escape, a fulfillment of the client’s dream to own a “cabin in the woods” – a secluded place to unwind, surrounded by nature. From the street, the house appears as a compact, solid form, hidden from prying eyes. Yet, once you pass this visual threshold, the house opens up to embrace the natural landscape, facing a creek and lush woodland that envelops the property.
Strategically nestled between two towering oaks that provide natural shade throughout the day, the structure becomes one with its surroundings. And yet, this is only the beginning.
The Interior – A Complex Simplicity
The interior impresses with its double-height space, which houses the primary living and dining areas. At first glance, the space may seem simple, but in fact, it’s carefully designed to blend functionality with aesthetics. The kitchen and bathrooms are discreetly integrated into the back wall, keeping the center open and airy. This design choice enhances the flow, transforming the main room into a spacious, well-organized gathering area.
The Oasis Upstairs
When you move to the upper level, everything changes. The loft bedroom overlooks the living area below, with a folded steel plate guardrail that adds a sense of privacy without obstructing light or views. Furthermore, the screened porch, designed as an extension of the bedroom, gives you a treehouse feel as it nestles within the branches of the giant oak. This is a haven of tranquility and privacy, a space that combines indoor comfort with the magic of the surrounding nature.
A Connection to Nature – A Contemporary Retreat
In conclusion, the Jewell Box House is a demonstration of intelligent design and sensitivity to the environment. Through thoughtful placement and the choice of natural materials, Mell Lawrence Architects have created a contemporary retreat that honors both the owners’ desire for seclusion and the beauty of the location. This house is more than a mere structure; it’s a symbiosis between humans and nature, a place where privacy merges with openness in perfect harmony.
