Stephen V. Levy, John & Bibiana Dykema— Architect

“When we merge the site, local vernacular, and the client’s goals, all orchestrated with the skill of a great designer, the project becomes a timeless success.”

— Stephen V. Levy, John & Bibiana Dykema, architect

The main entry to the house is a roofed, dogtrot-type, Ipe wood porch which separates the guest quarters from the main house and owner’s wing. It is here that guests first see the expansive view to the southwest before being drawn to the western edge to look out over the valley. Guests then enter the house through a somewhat closed-in entry area which blossoms into the living room, kitchen, and dining room, all crowned by expansive glass walls and a dramatic vaulted ceiling space. The main deck is an integral part of this living space, creating an unpretentious indooroutdoor feeling. An engaging and satisfying sense of space is pronounced through the discovery of a variety of additional spaces and views as one makes their way around the house.

The owners of Frio Ranch wanted to be involved in every decision, from resolving the floorplan and approving the scale of spaces to choosing the lighting and cabinet hardware — and Levy says the home is better for it. He also likes to think that the hilltop is happy that the house was built on it, and the owners certainly agree. Once construction was completed, they soon sold their Houston flat and moved to their weekend retreat fulltime, where they often entertain and host friends.ke.

Photography by Rob Gomez

Photography by Rob Gomez

Photography by Rob Gomez