Windsor World

The Perch is a 660 sq. ft. studio space that was designed and built by architect Nicole Blair. The project was completed in Austin, TX, where Nicole’s architectural firm is located. The Perch is a unique structure that was designed and built to fit above an existing bungalow. It rests on four steel columns that pierce through the existing bungalow walls to provide lateral support.

During the planning phase of the project, the owners had three stipulations: they wanted to keep their backyard intact, not move out of the home during construction, nor disturb the mature landscape. To achieve these goals, shop-built steel was craned into place to minimize disruption to the site. The vaulted ceilings created tilted angles, which provided visual interest and the impression of expansive space. The split-level form was selected to create storage and areas for mechanical equipment.

The color palette is clean and contemporary yet derived from nature. Windsor's Pinnacle casement, awning and direct set windows were selected in the burnt pumpkin clad exterior finish to complement the other building materials. The windows and sliding door were carefully placed to provide a generous amount of ambient light.

The Perch adds flexible, functional space within a very compact area. Nicole solved multiple site constraints and provided an innovative solution by setting this new addition back and having it poised over the top of the foundational structure…. and she miraculously did this without disturbing the original bungalow. The homeowners are very pleased with their new space because it provides them with the efficiency and serenity they were seeking.