Two Coves Residence by Bercy Chen Studio

‘Two Coves,’ a single-family house Residence, a realization from Bercy Chen Architect Studio is situated on a hilltop near Emma Long Metropolitan park in West Austin. The main house is defined by the large circular plinth that contains an infinity-edge reflecting pond . The central courtyard is formed by the pool and pond which, together offers a panoramic view of the town and the hills beyond.

The circular reflecting pond is a central and defining feature of the house and serves multiple purposes. The pond’s waterfall creates a constant white noise, canceling nearby traffic noise. Spiritually, the large body of water brings a sense of calm and psychological coolness while visually connecting the house with the surrounding landscape. The pond also captures the constantly changing ambient light and reflects it onto the interior ceiling, animating the entire house.

A cantilevered, perforated metal, shading structure shields against the intense Texas sun. The house is situated toward the southeast to capture the dominant view. The circular plinth carves into an L shaped house where daily lives revolve around the courtyard. A series of outdoor steps cascade down the slope passing under the reflecting pond and form an outdoor amphitheater, leading into a square Japanese Zen garden defined by bamboo grove. The steps along the amphitheater also contain edible planters with seasonal garden vegetables easily accessible from the kitchen and outdoor grilling station.

Every room in the house, public or private, enjoys both views into both the central courtyard and the panoramic hill and city vistas. The public portion of the L shaped house, containing the living, dinning room and kitchen are united visually by curved, mullionless, floor-to-ceiling glass along the edge of the central courtyard.