The Upper House / RAVEL Architecture

Text description provided by the architects. The High House is configured as a boomerang to accentuate the natural curvature of the terrain. It perches on top of the hill to maximize the 180 degree view of the site. The street side of the house has high walls to ensure privacy while letting in plenty of light.

The canyon side of the house features floor-to-ceiling glass that draws the city of Austin beyond. The view of the canyon is appreciated from every room of this incomparable home.

Short. Design a single storey house on land with an extreme slope. Position the house to enjoy the views of the canyon and downtown

Solutions. A plank retaining wall was placed to level the site for access. The retaining wall was made higher than necessary to become the main party wall of the house. One side of the retaining wall is a driveway and pedestrian access, the other side is the house, supported on pillars as high as 30 feet.