- Project: Tree House
- Architect: Matt Fajkus Architecture
- Location: United States, Austin, Texas
- Year: 2014
- Area: 254 m2
- Photography: Brian Mihealsick
Situated on Sacramento Drive in Austin, Texas, the Tree House by Matt Fajkus Architecture is a contemporary two-story residence that weaves refined materiality with environmental responsiveness. With a bold yet understated street presence, the design prioritizes views, shade, and connection to nature—all anchored around a majestic Live Oak tree at the center of the site.
A House Framed by Nature
At the heart of the design is a thoughtful response to its natural surroundings. The Live Oak not only inspires the residence’s name—it informs the architecture itself. The entry sequence aligns directly with the tree, creating a ceremonial path that celebrates the site’s organic center.
“Balanced shade, dappled sunlight, and tree canopy views are the basis of the design,” explain the architects.
Each space within the home responds uniquely to the tree, offering changing vantages and atmospheric light throughout the day.
A Courtyard That Connects and Divides
The central courtyard plays a pivotal role in organizing the plan. Acting as a buffer between the public and private zones, it opens toward the backyard and creates a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. It’s more than circulation—it’s a shared gathering space that enhances spatial relationships and encourages moments of pause.
The home’s massing consists of two single-story wings that embrace the tree while maintaining privacy from neighboring properties. At the core, a two-story window wall serves as the architectural climax—both in form and function.
A Window Wall That Frames and Filters
A standout feature is the towering window wall, crafted to maximize daylight and transparency without compromising budget. Composed of standard windows assembled with precision, this façade captures light, movement, and views of the tree, creating a dynamic visual dialogue between house and nature.
The upper section of the window wall tapers and folds, intentionally shaped to allow the tree’s canopy to grow freely—literally making space for nature within the built form.
Minimal Materials, Maximum Impact
Crisply detailed surfaces and restrained finishes form the aesthetic backbone of the Tree House. Material choices reflect elegance through simplicity, offering warmth and tactility while standing up to the demands of family life. Inside, each room is purposefully oriented toward moments of connection—whether to the tree, the courtyard, or filtered light.
