Ranch Complex

Independence, Texas

This second-generation family vacation compound was built on the footprint of the previous, smaller but much beloved gathering place that had outlived its function. The low-profile design allows the main building to recede into the hilltop landscape, breaking down its large plan into a lean, traditional ranch vernacular with deep porches, a material palette of stone and wood, and distant views screened by the many existing live oak trees that were carefully preserved. The project included addressing complex geotechnical challenges related to relocating the previous swimming pool and building the new, larger home over the previous one. 

The composition of main house, two guest houses overlooking a central lawn and pool, a pavilion and bunkhouse are arranged to bring people together and give them space as needed. Each building was thoughtfully designed to flow together and enhance the family’s experience of being together in this place.

The main house contains a large kitchen, dining, and living areas separated from bedrooms to allow for privacy, even with a full house. Thoughtful placement of generous windows enhance the connection to the outdoors. Bedroom and sleeping quarters are deliberately kept cozy and efficient to entice people out of their rooms and into common areas. The bunk house, designed for kids as a kind of outbuilding, is a playful two-story structure with corrugated metal siding on the exterior and exposed wood framing and finishes on the interior, which also includes a double height central space and a game room.