No house should ever be on a hill... it should be of the hill. — Frank Lloyd Wright

When the owners of this idyllic, park-like, 5-acre lot in West Lake Hills engaged architect Gary Furman, they gave him a simple guideline: "rugged sophistication." Over the following two years, Furman realized that vision with a timeless, organic design that seems to grow out of the landscape. His creation is among the most beautiful and unique homes in all of central Texas.

The Land

The site itself is quite unique: it is located at one of the highest elevations in the City of West Lake Hills, less than 5 miles from downtown. The combination of altitude and proximity make for remarkable views of the downtown skyline, the Capitol, the Tower, and Lady Bird Lake. There are other view lots in this part of the world, but it is quite rare to find one with this kind of acreage. All parties involved in the project knew that the work had to be worthy of the site.

Eschewing the old-school aesthetic of imposing order by manicuring the property, the owners called on renowned designer and author Jill Nokes, champion of "restored" and sustainable landscapes. (She called this a "dream job.") Many tons of beautifully eroded limestone were brought in, as well as many native plants. Now, almost ten years later, the landscape has matured into a diverse and rich woodland with gardens, trails, and meadows. Below the house lies a 2,300-SF fenced, raised-bed garden; irrigation is supplied by a 35,000-gallon cistern fed by a well.

The House

A private gated retreat on one of the best streets in West Lake Hills, this home provides security and serenity while furnishing a picture-perfect venue for entertaining.

The house can be thought of as having four sections: the public wing invites gathering and entertaining, the upstairs provides a secure and private domain for the family, the recreational wing includes game room, cabana, and sauna, as well as access to the pool, and the central area provides a warm and inviting place for family activities. In this last area one finds a spacious and efficient kitchen, a lovely breakfast room, a large screened porch with its own dining and living, a large den with window seats, and a second home office. The harmony of shapes and materials must really be seen for one to understand the effect this home has on its visitors. Every room invites one to linger. Every part of the home has a profound connection to the outside. This house belongs here.