Retraced dwelling rises above a babbling brook, providing avian observatory and panoramic waterway vistas.
Nestled on the tranquil waters of Lake Austin, The Roost pavilion stands as a stunning example of architectural innovation that respects and harmonizes with its unique natural surroundings. Designed by Furman & Keil Architects, this 880-square-foot floating structure replaces a crumbling boathouse and demonstrates that working with environmental constraints can lead to beautiful solutions.
Getting to The Roost involves a captivating journey, whether you wind through the forest on a stairway or paddle up by canoe. The pavilion floats above flood-prone waters on a steel frame, minimally disturbing the habitat and adhering to strict wetland protection laws.
One of the key aspects of its sustainable design is the elevated habitable space. The main living area is lifted to a second level, accessed by a bridge, minimizing ground disturbance and protecting against flooding common in the wetland area. This design decision ensures that The Roost can withstand regular floodwaters without damage, enhancing its durability in this dynamic environment.
Minimal site impact was another priority for the architects. Construction materials and workers were transported exclusively by flat-bottom boat or barge to avoid damaging the wetland. The original steel piers were reused, minimizing new ground intrusion, while the light steel frame touches the ground very lightly.
The Roost's design caters to both solitary and social experiences. The lower level, closer to the water's surface, is suitable for observing turtles and fish, while the upper level offers an ideal vantage point for spotting herons, egrets, and even owls that roost there at night.
The building's materials were carefully selected for durability against the wet environment while enabling a light, airy structure that visually dissolves into the landscape. Ipe wood, a Brazilian hardwood resistant to moisture and temperature swings, was used to wrap the structure. Screens and ceiling fans from Modern Fan Company were used to keep bugs out and air moving, respectively.
The construction of The Roost was a collaborative effort, with Crowell as the builder and Word + Carr as the landscape architects. The 2024 Residential Design Architect Awards judges praised The Roost as a beautiful pavilion that seamlessly integrates into its natural environment, demonstrating that architectural innovation can coexist harmoniously with nature.
As The Roost dances above floodwaters and feels weightless against the landscape, it serves as a testament to the power of sustainable design and the beauty that can emerge from respecting and working with environmental constraints. The pavilion not only offers a unique and captivating space but also contributes to the recovery and reclamation of the surrounding wetland ecosystem, making it a truly remarkable achievement in architectural design.
The Roost, with its elevatedmain living area, caters to an outdoor-lifestyle, offering various events such as bird-watching or fishing, while contributing to the home-and-garden ecosystem by minimizing site impact during construction and adhering to strict wetland protection laws. The sustainable design of The Roost has set a standard for integrating architectural innovation into the natural environment, showcasing that lifestyle events can blend harmoniously with outdoor-living and home-and-garden preservation.
