When Less is More: An Elegant ADU
A Backyard Masterpiece
Words by Christopher Ferguson, AIA Photos by Leonid Furmansky & Likeness Studio
A young family’s timeless ADU is thoughtfully designed with their neighbors in mind.
“We wanted to add to a social momentum that was started by our neighbors,” Holly-Beth Potter says with a grin. “Pretty suddenly, we had four families all living on a one-acre plot of land.” Where others might have seen close-quarters, the then-newlyweds Holly-Beth and partner, Matt, saw opportunity for deep familial friendships in Austin’s cozy Chestnut neighborhood.
In close collaboration with talented upstart architects Side Angle Side, Holly-Beth and Matt would sensitively remodel the existing 100-year-old bungalow on the property, which was originally erected in Rosewood and relocated to Chestnut in the 1950s.
But short on time with a growing family, the couple first focused on designing a comfortable accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on the lot that could serve as their home while the main residence was designed and remodeled.
The result is a delightfully modest building that achieves something greater than the sum of its parts. By embracing restraint, it evinces a poised humility, affording moments that celebrate bold gestures without falling into the trap of pretense.
A monolithic gray stucco wall faces the main home, a choice that deemphasizes the building from the street. While striking, its scale and massing feel appropriately deferential, while also offering privacy to those inside.
“Doing life with our neighbors is our normal, so it was important that the home reinforced those ties. Our families enjoy spending time together, so people are always mixing and mingling between backyards.”
Holly-Beth Potter
A generous patio and hidden carport are placed between the stucco wall and a taut, two-story volume clad in vertical cedar planks intended to silver with age. The volume’s pitched roof accommodates an airy and uncompromising bedroom suite with vaulted ceilings, his-and-hers closets, an outdoor deck and fireplace, and a skylit bathroom with a walk-in shower.
The ground floor is also smartly arranged, combining a kitchen and living area that opens to the outdoor patio, as well as another bedroom and half-bath.
With work on the main residence, a century-old bungalow now well underway, this clever project seems to resonate with the strong foundational relationships of its creators: a promising prelude of more to come.
Howdy Neighbor
Neighbors Graham and Amanda Davidson of Curate Custom Homes built the project after developing a close friendship with Matt and Holly-Beth. Homeowner Holly-Beth designed the interiors of the project herself, incorporating bright and playful materials that bridge indoor and outdoor spaces.
Contact:
sideangleside.co
arthur@sideangleside.co
annie@sideangleside.co
@sideangleside.co
