Nestled amidst the lush landscape of rolling hills and live oak trees in West Austin, Texas, the Westview Residence by Alterstudio Architecture delivers thoughtful design and environmental sensitivity. Situated on a steeply sloped lot at the end of a cul-de-sac, this home redefines the relationship between architecture and nature by embracing the challenges of its site rather than imposing upon it.

Modern glass-walled house surrounded by lush greenery and trees, with a winding gravel path leading to the entrance. Interior lights highlight the minimalist design inside.

A defining feature of the property is a meandering seasonal creek that carves its way through a grove of protected trees. Rather than viewing this natural formation as an obstacle, the architects used it as a central design element, shaping the layout of the home to seamlessly integrate with the existing landscape. The result is a striking composition of masonry structures positioned on either side of the ravine, with a grand living space bridging the two halves as it cantilevers over the occasional stream.

Modern house with large glass windows, surrounded by trees and greenery, showing interior details like furniture and decor.

Modern house with large glass windows surrounded by lush greenery, rocks, and a tree in the foreground.

This architectural arrangement does more than simply respond to the land – it creates a sense of seclusion amidst a densely developed neighborhood. The residence establishes its own private retreat, visually extending its natural surroundings to evoke an atmosphere of tranquility. The spatial arrangement encourages a fluid transition between the indoors and outdoors, with rooms that serve as intermediary spaces, blurring the distinction between built form and nature.

Modern building with large glass windows, surrounded by trees and landscaped gardens. Overcast sky in the background.

Modern house with flat roof beside a narrow pool, surrounded by trees. The pool reflects the trees and the building, creating a serene atmosphere.

A minimalist rectangular swimming pool feels as if it’s floating amongst a sea of trees on two sides. The three volumes wrap around the pool creating a courtyard with privacy from nearby homes, while the floor-to-ceiling windows allow the occupants views from each structure.

A modern outdoor patio features a rectangular pool, green table and chairs, and a pergola overhead, surrounded by lush trees.

A modern, partially open black door with vertical grooves leads to a small courtyard with a brick wall and potted plant. Light wood flooring is visible inside.

Modern dining area with a white table, wooden chairs, black pendant light, and a wood-paneled ceiling. Large windows and a decorative slatted screen offer views of greenery outside.

Modern dining area with a rectangular white table and five brown chairs. A black vase with branches sits on the table. Large windows reveal a view of trees and a white brick wall outside.

Modern kitchen with a long black island, four wooden bar stools, artwork, a potted plant, and a sleek design. Light wooden ceiling and floor add warmth to the minimalist setting.

Modern kitchen with wooden ceiling, black countertops, and light wood flooring. Large plant on the island, a tree visible through a window, and fruits displayed.

Inside, the residence exudes warmth and refinement, featuring oak-clad ceilings and floors that contrast with robust brick walls. The masonry, chosen for its rugged texture and historical character, adds depth and dimension to the home, interacting dynamically with natural light throughout the day. Large openings invite sunlight to permeate the space, fostering a connection to the ever-changing outdoor environment.

Modern living room with brick walls, large windows showing greenery, a glass coffee table with a chess set, a dark sofa with an orange pillow, a black chair, and a plant by the fireplace.

The black kitchen cabinets and details throughout the interior juxtapose the cream-colored bricks and warm wood surfaces for a balanced aesthetic that feels inviting and cozy.

Modern living room with a white brick wall, fireplace, gray sofa, wooden chairs, and cowhide rug. Large windows reveal a view of trees.

Modern room with a brick wall and fireplace, wooden ceiling, floor-to-ceiling windows, a black chair, plant, open books on the floor, and a chessboard on a glass table.

Modern living room with large glass doors, wooden ceiling, and light-colored flooring. A gray sofa with a geometric pillow is next to a round table with a small game on it. A patio is visible outside.

Living room with large windows overlooking a garden and pool. A tall potted cactus is by the window. Light wood ceiling and floor, and a dark wall with a TV are visible.

Modern bedroom with large windows showcasing a forest view. Features a bed with a striped blanket, black curtain, and a seating area with a chair and small table. Minimalist decor.

Modern house entrance with vertical wooden slats, white brick walls, and a flat roof. Shadows of trees visible on the walls.

Modern white brick building with rectangular design, surrounded by trees and greenery under dappled sunlight.

Modern house exterior with white brick and black accents, featuring a large garage door, flat roof, and paved driveway framed by grass, under clear blue sky and surrounded by trees.

Modern house with a mix of white and dark exteriors surrounded by trees. A paved driveway leads to the entrance, with steps on the right side surrounded by greenery.

Modern house surrounded by trees, featuring white brick walls and large glass windows, with a paved driveway leading to the entrance.

Aerial view of a residential area with tree-covered houses and a small swimming pool, surrounded by greenery and winding roads.

For more information on the Westview Residence or Alterstudio Architecture, visit alterstudio.net.

Photography by Casey Dunn.

Caroline Williamson is Editor-in-Chief of Design Milk. She has a BFA in photography from SCAD and can usually be found searching for vintage wares, doing New York Times crossword puzzles in pen, or reworking playlists on Spotify.

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