Marvil/Smyth House, Houston, Texas (2002-2004)
The 2,600 sq. ft. house is located near Memorial Park, Houston’s largest nature reserve and Public Park. The house is carefully fitted amid existing trees. One of these, a matured live-oak tree prominently sited at the front of the property, is fully integrated with the architecture as a welcoming and all hovering canopy. The two-story house layout interlocks with a generous garden at the rear of the lot, completing a private and bounded domain. All living spaces and a two-car garage occupy the ground floor, while two bedrooms and a small study are located on the second floor. Natural light is deployed through strategic windows while expanding views to the neighborhood and to the green horizon of Memorial park. The house’s exterior consists of three primary materials: brick, stucco, and a galvanized steel roof. Built of economical, simple and durable materials throughout, the house offers a viable alternative to the rampant; over scaled fast-track constructions that are rapidly proliferating in what was once a rich neighborhood of modest houses.
