News Summary
Furman + Keil Architects have introduced ‘Roost’, a 928-square-foot timber pavilion situated in Austin’s wetlands. Designed with sustainability in mind, this structure promotes a connection with nature, featuring limited access and a unique design that minimizes environmental disruption. Elevated on steel piers, the pavilion protects the local ecosystem while providing stunning views. Roost encourages seasonal living and positively impacts local wildlife, contributing to the ecological renewal of the area.
Austin – Furman + Keil Architects have introduced a new sustainable pavilion named ‘Roost’, a 928-square-foot timber structure nestled in a hidden area of Austin’s wetlands. Designed with the environment in mind, Roost aims to serve as a retreat that allows visitors to connect with nature while minimizing disruption to the surrounding habitat.
Situated below the elevation of its neighboring area, access to Roost is limited. Visitors must navigate a narrow staircase or paddle a canoe through the waters to reach this secluded structure. The journey involves a winding descent through a limestone grotto, enhancing the experience of entering a tranquil, hidden world.
Roost is elevated on existing steel piers, which were retained and extended to reduce ground disturbance. This design choice not only protects the wetland habitat but also allows the structure to remain resilient against potential flooding. By refusing to extend the home’s conditioned footprint, the architects ensured that Roost promotes seasonal living while remaining environmentally conscious.
The pavilion is uniquely situated to provide stunning views of the surrounding treetops and the water’s edge, creating an illusion of hovering above the slough. Alongside the primary structure, there is a screened porch designed for leisure and birdwatching, while the shaded area underneath the pavilion serves as a boat launch and a functional space for engaging with the shoreline.
The project faced unique challenges due to its location, including limited access and a restriction on using heavy construction equipment. Consequently, construction materials were transported to the site via barge and required hand assembly. The architects opted for light wood cladding and open detailing, enabling Roost to blend seamlessly into its environment. Emphasizing sustainable design principles, durable materials were chosen for exterior elements to withstand environmental stressors.
The design seeks to minimize the footprint of the project while embracing the local ecology. By prioritizing interactions with the wetland atmosphere, the architects aim to create a balance between human habitation and nature. The simplified floor plan limits conditioned space, fostering an immersive experience within the natural surroundings.
In addition to being a sustainable living space, Roost has contributed positively to the local wildlife. Since its completion, owls have returned to the structure, signaling a part of the area’s ecological renewal. The project aligns with the vision of promoting a quiet and respectful occupation of the wetland area, allowing both humans and nature to coexist harmoniously.
The design team consisted of Principals Troy Miller and Philip Keil, along with Project Managers Maanasa Nathan and Dawson Williams, among other contributors. Photography showcasing Roost was captured by Leonid Furmansky, highlighting the pavilion’s integration into the diverse Austin landscape.
Overall, Roost represents a significant advancement in sustainable architecture, demonstrating how thoughtful design can enhance the relationship between people and the environment while fostering ecological mindfulness in every aspect of construction.
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Additional Resources
- Designboom: Furman + Keil Architects’ Elevated Roost
- Wikipedia: Austin, Texas
- Dezeen: Furman + Keil Pavilion
- Google Search: Sustainable Architecture
- Designboom: Sustainable Design by Furman + Keil
- Google Scholar: Wetland Conservation
- Dezeen: Sustainable Housing in Austin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Green Architecture
- Dezeen: Birdwatching Roost by Furman + Keil
- Google News: Furman Keil Architects
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
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