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In Texas, architecture firm Lake Flato has completed the ‘Hog Pen Creek Residence’, an expansive lakeside retreat connected by a long exterior boardwalk. Situated at the confluence of Hog Pen Creek and Lake Austin, the dwelling was envisioned by its owners as a playful property that encouraged outdoor living, and maximized the site’s tranquil views. The home’s L-shaped footprint and orientation helps negotiate heritage oak trees, a steeply sloping site, and aggressive setbacks from the water. The boardwalk connects a series of structures that step down the hillside, traversing a 75-foot lap pool, and terminating at a screened pavilion by the lake’s edge.

The main living area is a two-story volume with a lofted master bedroom and porches at both ends. This area of the home enjoys cool prevailing breezes and shade from the adjacent oak trees. The interior accommodates many operable windows that provide cross ventilation and daylight, while three pairs of oversized doors provide sweeping views of Lake Austin. Lake Flato carefully sited the project so that no existing trees had to be removed during its construction. However, one pecan tree was uprooted during a storm and was consequently incorporated into the design of tables and shelves within the home.