Canyon Turn Trail | Elliot Johnson, AIA

Firm： Elliot Johnson, AIA

Type： Residential › Private House

STATUS： Built

YEAR： 2008

SIZE： 5000 sqft - 10,000 sqft

BUDGET： $1M - 5M

Nestled into the landscape at the top of the hill, this captivating Italian elevation is inspired by the architecture of Italy’s most scenic regions. The home presents a simple front expression to the street, with elegant details enhancing a smooth stucco finish. Progressing through the entry tower allows the rest of the house to reveal itself as the dynamic massing of the clustered building elements successfully conveys an attitude reminiscent of groupings of villas in tranquil Tuscan hill towns.

Overall, the plan demonstrates a fluidity and high level of function for a large 7,000sf, three-story home, with an L-shaped footprint designed to take advantage of the courtyard areas and views of Lake Travis beyond. Throughout the home, inner spaces meld into outer zones and views, extending the spatial and visual boundaries of the rooms and infusing the spaces with daylight.

A wine room and bar extend the livability and warmth of a library lined with bookcases and a fireplace. The living room on the third floor was designed as a quiet place to retreat and take in the tranquil views of the pond, waterfall and pool below as well as the landscape and lake beyond. An airy master retreat features a flexible sitting area, serving as a possible den or even nursery, while a luxuriously large shower highlights the owner’s bath. Another wonderful space is the Casita located just beyond the outdoor living room. With a full bathroom, covered porch and views to pool, this detached Casita is a wonderful independent dwelling that remains a viable part of the main house.