Located on the edge of Southwest Austin along the highway that leads to the wine country and Texas Hill Country via Lake Travis, Covered Bridge defines a unique sense of place to revive a building typology that had fallen out of favor with potential tenants. The medium-density garden-style development of 360-units celebrates its site by threading into a grove of trees and honoring the region’s tradition of craft.
Inspired by a contemporary barn aesthetic, the buildings are finished in limestone, steel and wood. Interiors are simple and clean with pristine white walls contrasting exposed wood and waxed hot rolled steel. The millwork provides predominately rustic textures, which constrasts with silky plaster wall panels and thin steel railings. Painted shiplap, end cut cedar walls framed in steel, and oversized pocket doors are custom elements created by a local artist, Chris Honea of Flitch by Honea Woodworks. These materials dive into one another creating playful juxtapositions that energize and personalize the space.
An installation of commissioned photography strengthens connections between Covered Bridge and the traditions in the region. Artist and photographer Anthony Chambliss completed a four-part photography series that captures the yearlong process of winemaking—from early spring through late fall harvest and final production. Abstract images of the grape harvest and winemaking express an appreciation for effort and craft, qualities that are essential to the design scheme. Large format prints transform the space into an art gallery that tells a distinctly local story.
Unique details and precision craftsmanship elevate this typical rental community into a distinctive and sought after development. The project achieved LEED Gold status and received an Austin Energy Green Building 2 Star rating.
