E2211
E2211 challenges conventional urban development by placing design at the forefront, rather than profit. As a design/build/development project, it rethinks the typical constraints of speculative housing, prioritizing spatial quality, material integrity, and a strong indoor-outdoor connection within a compact 4,123-square-foot lot in downtown Austin.
By situating the home at the rear of the property, the design maximizes outdoor living space—an uncommon luxury in dense urban environments. A concrete and slatted wood wall defines both boundary and façade, balancing privacy with transparency. Durable materials, including a low-maintenance metal shell over a stucco core, ensure longevity while reinforcing the project's commitment to thoughtful, enduring design.
A sweeping curve shapes the double-height dining space, enhancing the indoor-outdoor experience, while a semi-open plan creates distinct yet fluid conversation zones. The ground-floor master suite extends into the landscape, featuring a flexible, integrated bath and closet area that dissolves traditional boundaries.
Above, the second-floor den overlooks the dining space and northern yard, reinforcing vertical connections and a sense of openness. A southern clerestory window bathes the interiors in balanced natural light, acting as a subtle sundial that marks the passage of time—encouraging occupants to engage with natural rhythms.
As a design-driven development, E2211 serves as a model for how architecture can lead the conversation in urban housing. It demonstrates that speculative projects need not compromise on quality, proving that a market-driven approach can still prioritize thoughtful design, sustainability, and the lived experience.
Developed, Designed and Built by RAVEL
Photography by Chase Daniel