Austin-based architect Matt Fajkus encourages his clients to focus on solar orientation, breeze-flow, and the preservation of shade trees when siting projects. His firm’s two-story, stucco-clad addition to the Ames house transformed the drab 1980s home into an open, light-filled dwelling with contemporary character and improved energy-efficiency. South-facing windows are inset to provide shading and mitigate heat gain. On the inside, beautiful millwork stands out, and black-framed picture windows keep nature in view. Fajkus says, “Daylighting puts us in touch with the natural rhythm of the day, which is emotionally soothing.”

Project Details

Single family
Architect: Matt Fajkus Architecture
Project: Ames House (950-square-foot addition)
Location: Austin, Texas
Completed: 2020

From the firm: “The volumes are defined by clean, discrete geometry and complemented by ample windows and skylights to create a space which feels open, bright, and connected to the outdoors.”

Scroll ahead to peek inside this home.

Follow Andersen’s Bright Ideas design competition and see if our judges select your favorite when we announce the winners in early October.