Square Footage

First Floor           - 1806 s.f.
Front Porch          - 150 s.f.

This southwestern style inspired custom residence creates the rustic appeal of adobe construction, by combining elegantly attractive and comfortable living with environmentally-friendly sustainable features.  Our challenge was to design a ‘green’ home on a limited budget and the result was our first five-star City of Austin Green Building rated home built by fellow Green Building member Robert Zirkel of Shelter Design and Construction.

The stucco exterior complemented by native wood beautifully blends in with the preserved Texas landscape, and the large covered porch and arbour provide relaxed outdoor living which is warm and welcoming.

Entering the foyer, one is struck but the cool, inviting atmosphere created by the light yet warm décor and tiled floors.  The foyer serves as an effective transition from private to public spaces, and the partially open-plan living areas provide an airy openness while effectively maintaining a demarcation between utility and living areas.  The plastered walls are cool and practical and the interior décor and wood features including dramatically craved ornamentation provide continuity between indoor and outdoor aesthetics.

Seiler Residence (c) 2003 Elliot Johnson, AIA                                                                                       First Floor Plan  

Positioned to capture ambient lighting, but to reduce heat absorption, this home provides a comfortable haven from the hot Texas sun, and guarantees energy and cost savings.  The light color exterior, 2x6 walls, Low-E wood windows, “Total fill” and duct insulation, a 2-phase high efficiency air conditioner and ceiling fans ensure this is achieved.