Rural Retreat

A compound of metal clad structures amid rolling farmland. Brenham, TX.

A weekend retreat and eventual retirement home, this four building compound includes the main house, guest house, artist’s studio and detached garage.  The passive solar design is sited to maximize cooling effects of prevailing breezes while taking advantage of a beautiful view to the north.  High efficiency HVAC systems, exposed metal ducts, concrete floors, and a ventilated metal skin are just some of its sustainable features. The garage serves as a “rain barn” collecting rainwater for use in irrigation.  The artist’s studio is located in a very special spot, just beyond two tremendous oak trees, and its workspace is flooded with northern light.