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Architect Alex Gil and his wife, Claudia DeSimio, affixed a 750-square-foot addition to the roof of a 19th century Williamsburg townhouse, transforming their cramped third-floor apartment into a modern duplex.

Bedrosians tile covers the walls and floor, with sconces by Kelly Wearstler for Visual Comfort and California Faucets.

“As much as it’s practical, it’s also a very good-looking thing: a sculpture piece. I call it the jewel on the side,” says Noguera of the unique skylight here.

The house is completely off grid. It operates on solar panels, wood-fire heat and water from the lake; there’s even a compost sewage system.

Despite all the glass, this self-sustaining home is still cozy, thanks to energy-efficient insulation.

The minimalist exterior complements the rest of the inside, with a fun play on materials and intersecting lines.

A professional painter who is also a close friend gave them a custom artwork, which fits their staircase perfectly, as a housewarming present.

"When we lived in New York, the dream was to have a bathtub,

"We did splurge in certain areas, but we made sure to be careful about where we did,

This countryside residence favors simple, sustainable moves over square footage, and strategically captures views without walls of glass.

The studio uses Shou Sugi Ban cedar siding, white oak, and local Texas limestone. “In a sense it’s nicer than our home,” says Isaac, referring to the high-quality, natural finishes.

Rain Chain Detail