Backwards Sky Ranch, Texas House Project, Texan Country Architecture, Dry Frio River Building, Architecture Photos

Backwards Sky Ranch in Central Texas

Nov 9, 2021

Design: Clayton Korte

Location: Hill Country, Central Texas, United States of America

Backwards Sky Ranch House

In the Hill Country of central Texas, the Backwards Sky Ranch House straddles the boundary between an open meadow to the south and the sharply carved bank of the Dry Frio River to the north. The living spaces are perched above and run parallel to the river, offering the owners uninterrupted access and views to the river valley.

To the south and west, a massive stone spine shelters these living spaces from the harsh summer sun, taking advantage of large roof overhangs and operable shade screens. Here, exterior space (3,284 square feet) rivals interior space (4,427 square feet).

Limestone walls reflect the natural stone outcroppings found on the 46-acre property and the tongue-and-groove cedar siding is meant to naturally patina with age, providing both a natural honesty to the structure and reduced maintenance.

A central dog run porch serves as the main entry and a bridge between the living spaces and master suite. Extending towards the river from this dog run is a long elevated “pier” that not only projects the owners and guests out into the open valley of the river, but also provides a privileged perspective for stargazing. In this house, the incredible landscape is never far away.

Backwards Sky Ranch in Texas, USA – Building Information

Design: Clayton Korte

Clayton Korte project team:
Brian Korte FAIA, Principal
Camden Greenlee AIA, Architect/Design Lead
Javier Castro AIA, Architect
Josh Nieves, Project Manager
Brandon Tharp, Design Team

Consultant team:
Architect: Clayton Korte
Builder: Monday Builders
Structural Engineer: Scott Williamson, P.E.
Landscape Design: Studio Outside
Envelope Consultant: Acton Partners
Geotechnical Engineer: InTEC of San Antonio

Backwards Sky Ranch, Central Texas images / information received 091121 from Clayton Korte

Location: by Dry Frio River, Central
Texas, USA

Architecture in Texas

Texas Architecture

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image courtesy of architects
National Medal of Honor Museum

AISD Performing Arts Center, Austin
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photography : Thomas McConnell and Miró Rivera Architects
AISD Performing Arts Center