English Country
This house for a doctor, his wife and three children in a traditional residential neighborhood in Houston, Texas is a contemporary version of the English country house. The herringbone brick pattern, half-timber framing and Chippendale wrought ironwork all project a coherent style. Three telescoping gables complete the classic asymmetrical façade.
The family room’s vaulted ceiling is Douglas fir and it is overlooked by a small upstairs mater sitting area and the adjacent back stair hall. The large family room’s focus is a raised stained red oak mantel and brick fireplace, while built-ins centrally house the TV and stereo. The Chippendale wrought iron details are echoed in the balcony rails and the entrance foyer stair-rail.
The steep roof contributes to the country house façade. The all-brick three-car garage with studio apartment above is connected tot eh house with an arched brick breezeway. An aviary with wrought iron railing overlooks the vegetable and herb gardens with a lily pond. A raised concrete pier and treated wood foundation resists Houston’s unstable clay soil.
With its organized spatial complexity, its fine exterior brick details, its finishes and well-proportioned interior moldings, the owners and architect of this unique residence created a very special personal setting in which to enjoy family life.
