Midcentury Zen
Moontower’s Light Touch
Words Christopher Ferguson, RA | Photos Melissa Blair
A sensitive addition breathes new life—and light—into a midcentury gem.
Originally built in 1953, Michael and Melissa Blair’s cozy bungalow was full of midcentury charm but lacked space their growing family needed. Eyeing the opportunity to expand, the couple enlisted local firm Moontower as designers and builders, and a collaborative relationship quickly blossomed.
Together, the group envisioned a layout that would preserve the home’s poised, midcentury facade while creating a seamless flow between new indoor and outdoor areas. The result is a smart footprint that opens up the back of the home to create an outdoor living space connected to a generous master suite, all designed to frame lush views of the garden beyond.
“Frank and his team navigated our creative needs and our desire for agency so well. They gave us a seat at the table and understood our ethos.” -Michael Blair, homeowner
A new primary bathroom, which Moontower conceived as a distinct plaster volume nestled within the larger structure, is defined by its gentle curves, ultimately forming a “room within a room” that feels both intimate and grand. Skylights above draw in natural light while maintaining a sense of privacy and protection.
Outside, the couple embraced a “Marfa meets Japan” aesthetic. Taking cues from their love of the Texas desert, they laid a crushed limestone foundation and added tiered landscaping, creating a native Texas zen garden that flows around the new addition.
Yet, the home’s most dramatic statement may be the front door and window trim, made from traditional cypress and finished with a shou sugi ban (yaki sugi) technique that involves charring the wood with an industrial torch. “It was nerve-wracking to take the blowtorch to this beautiful, big handmade door,” admitted Michael, “but it worked and is one of the nicest parts of the home.”
With Moontower’s help, Michael and Melissa’s once modest bungalow was reimagined as an airy space that honors its 1950s heritage. The home’s poise and personality are a reminder of what is possible when designers and homeowners can sustain a truly equitable collaboration, an achievement as commendable as the home itself.
Contact:
Moontower
(512) 524-7253
828 Airport Blvd.
moontoweraustin.com
@moontoweraustin
