Rooted in Design: Modern Architecture with Welcoming Warm Interiors

Building a home that has a sense of neighborliness and privacy is a delicate balance—a challenge and an art form. This Austin residence, crafted by CoXist Studioopens in a new tab, strikes that perfect balance from the moment you lay eyes on it. Its facade, an elegant dialogue between brick and glass, establishes a home that invites, yet never overexposes. The walkway to the front door is a particularly generous and gracious gesture, a gently cascading stream of steps spun of black steel. Out back, ample windows bring the outdoors in.

Like the exterior, the home’s interiors echo this measured grace, blending the elevated appeal of contemporary design with a clear appreciation for daily living. “We believe that architecture and interior design should reflect a unified vision,” says CoXist principal, Frank Lin. “We take a big idea or concept and translate it into every detail, from millwork and wall finishes to plumbing fixtures and lighting. However, it’s important to strike a balance—overemphasizing these details can overwhelm the space. So, we aim for a cohesive design language that remains subtle and harmonious.”

The home’s living spaces are arranged on an open plan, anchored by white oak flooring throughout. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer an uninterrupted connection to the backyard pool and garden with views from the kitchen, living room, and dining area. Free-flowing as the space is, it’s never adrift. The architects masterfully conjure a sense of separation.

The kitchen, a focal point, is situated kitty-corner to the dining area, with an appreciable distance between the two. It is bisected by a streamlined island clad in Cambria’s Hermitage quartz design, with a waterfall treatment that serves as a functional visual separation from the dining area. “Cambria is renowned for its durability and low maintenance, but for us, beauty is paramount,” remarks Lin. “With its warm tones and subtle patterns, the Hermitage quartz design complements the natural oak cabinetry beautifully.”

Knowing how items tend to get lost at the back of a cabinet, Lin opted for lower storage drawers for easier access. And the upper cabinets hinge upward, creating a sleek, modern aesthetic. Plus, there’s less chance of banging one’s head if a cabinet door is left open.

The rear of the house, including the primary bedroom, opens onto a deck surrounding a pool framed with Texas-sourced Lueders limestone. “The clients wanted to take full advantage of the property and have a functional backyard with a pool,” says Lin. “This was challenging, because the lot is tight and the home behind sits much higher. So, we created a backdrop for the pool that also doubles as a retaining wall. This creates a focal moment for the outdoor living space and helps screen the neighbors behind.” 

From front street to backyard, this home is a masterclass in balancing the needs of modern living with a warm, neighborly presence. Good architecture doesn’t just make a statement—it makes good neighbors.