Annie Residence by Bercy Chen Studio

The sustainable design in residential project designed by Bercy Chen Studio built for two families in Austin and therefore is split into two living areas. The house consists of two pavilions connected by a glass hallway. Annie Residence is a certified "city of Austin green building project" and scored a 3-star out of the highest possible 5-star rating.



The design was greatly influenced by different regions and cultures. Both the use of the roof as an outdoor living space and the shading devices are derived from Moorish architecture. The body of water and the spatial continuity between inside and outside was inspired by Asian architecture. while the structural transparency of the volumes and the minimalist aspect of the interior was derived from Japanese pavilions.



The house is constructed of a modular steel frame. The frame is infilled with prefab thermasteel panels to minimize construction on-site waste. The structural frame is exposed, showing the construction process and articulating the house's facades. The repetitive modular method, as well as the prefabrication allowed for greater efficiency during construction.



"Each pavilion in this annie residence contains a central core made of steel stud frame covered with 3/8" blue or red acrylic panels. These cores contain all the service areas of the house such as bathrooms, kitchens, utilities, and storage rooms to maximize efficiency. Concentrating most of the plumbing, heating & cooling and electrical systems inside this core avoids losing capacity through excessive turns.



The one storey pavilion contains two bedrooms and one bath while the other contains the rest of the program. Each volume is placed against the side setback of the property creating a central water garden in-between.



The reflecting pool becomes the focal point and all sides of the house open onto it. The walls against the sides of the property are closed, creating a courtyard layout. The two parts of the house are staggered to create a deck area in the front as well as a more private outdoor living area in the back, visually united by the translucent glass bridge."





Project details

Project: Annie Residence
Client: Thomas & Yanick Bercy
Project Type: Single Family Residence
Principal Designers: Thomas Bercy, Calvin Chen
Design Team: Thomas Bercy, Calvin Chen
Contractors: Bercy Chen Studio LLP
Date of commencement of project: 2001
Date of completion of project:2003
Location of site: Austin, Texas
Site Area: 7500 s.f.
Built-up Area: 2000 s.f.
Cost of Construction: $ 250,000