A Home that Sings
A Synergistic Modern Space
Words Codi Chen | Photos Brian Cole
“Modern design is the balance between efficiency and beauty. It’s almost mathematical in how it’s organized, but there’s a rhythm to it, a poetic flow,” says Edgar Prats, designer and builder at Level 4 Studio.
Edgar’s decision to design this house in East Austin stems from his soulful connection to this part of the city, which he describes as a place where creativity thrives. As a long admirer of the area’s eccentric rhythm, he saw potential in a few narrow lots in the neighborhood along East MLK Jr. Boulevard. “When I look at a piece of land, it sings to me. I can see the harmony between the trees and the neighboring homes, which helps me understand what I can create there,” he explains with a nod to his musical roots.
The narrow structure of this home required him to focus on a multi-level approach, creating a sense of space and light that defies its compact form. Starting with the welcoming large front deck that leads into stunning vaulted ceilings, Edgar drew inspiration from the row houses in Amsterdam. His use of industrial elements, like exposed steel and stucco, nods to mid-century modern influences while embracing the East Austin urban setting.
The design is part of a triptych project featuring three similar, yet uniquely distinct, homes, each with its own character. Edgar aims to create a sense of community on the street while allowing individuality to shine through. He emphasizes that modern architecture is not just about aesthetics but also about how a space feels and functions. “Each room serves a purpose,” he notes. “It’s about ensuring that, while the home feels open and inviting, it also provides the privacy people desire.”
The materials chosen for the home highlight the sleek durability of the structure, and the modern design incorporates large windows that frame views of the surrounding greenery. This approach ensures that, while the home is in an urban setting near all of Austin’s amenities, it still feels like a serene retreat.
In East Austin, where the landscape is a kaleidoscope of change, this thoughtfully designed home offers a glimpse into a rhythmic balance of modernity and nature. To its homeowners, it’s a space that truly resonates with the soul of the neighborhood in harmonious beauty.
Contact:
LVL4studio.com
info@lvl4studio.com
@level4studioatx
