Architect John Henry AIA offers on site construction observation as an option to custom home builders and clients.  Each project that proceeds from concept to concrete deserves the attention of the prime designer as it is being constructed.  John Henry offers services ranging from conceptual design to Permit Set to complete interior design and materials specifications, additional detailing, and construction administration.  Please visit these pages to appreciate the scope of our services: Introduction, Design Process, Questionnaire, Ultra Custom Services, Interiors, Custom Details, and Fee Schedule.

TUSCAN VILLA  Formal central elevation is contrasted by asymmetrical wings. Cut limestone base and veneer will also include synthetic products for trim, surrounds, cornice, etc.

At end photo (right below) note several bracket treatments set up to gauge best effect.

Two domes are being framed up (second row below), one is elliptical over the two story Foyer, the second is a hemisphere over the Grand Stair.

Brief:  22,000 SF Classical Tuscan Villa on Westlake Drive.  We started on a different lot, much smaller, then modified the plan somewhat -- and expanded it to the current design.  It will be completely period style with all classical moldings and details using a variety of materials, synthetic and natural.  Stucco and limestone exterior with ceramic tile roof.   The plan has an elliptical domed foyer with Grand Stair, plus secondary stair from family room to children's guest bedrooms.  Besides the formal living and dining rooms there are his and her studies, library, billiard room, game room, secret room, separate guest suite with kitchen/ living area, elevator, 2 powder rooms, large pantry, grotto/ wine cellar, entertainment bar, barrel vaulted family room, conservatory, upper garage train/ craft room, outdoor grill porch and viewing porches, outdoor fireplace (there are a total of 10 fireplaces) upper balconies and decks, 3 children's bedrooms ensuite, plus a grand master suite w/ boudoir and wet bar, cedar closet, etc.  Ceiling treatments include groin vaults, tray, barrel coffer, beam, quatre-foile, and numerous arches, etc.   The wooded site with panoramic lakeview is over 4 acres with 3 slip boathouse, 6 car garage, folly at the highest point, and decorative entry gate.  The construction cost is estimated at over $400/Sf and will take over 28 months to build.  Dailey Design and Remodeling is the Builder, 512-327-6685.

An outstanding transitional Ultra Contemporary design for Legacy Homes in San Antonio at Summerglen recently won the Presidential Award: Judges Best of Show.  The home  incorporates a large rotonda in the center similar to the Palladian prototype but shifts it out in order to have a curved glazed view towards the west.   Roger Del Gado (builder) entered the home in the recent  May Parade of Homes in San Antonio, completing construction in only 5.5 months!  Front and rear elevations (see below) are being framed.  You can see the curve of the rotonda which shows on the rear elevation.  This will be a 31 foot diameter living room with an oculus (or skylight centered at the top).  Finished elevations will be in a similar style to the original. (below right)  Roger is building 3 other specs and is working on two custom designs based on our work. 

See complete coverage of show at http://www.paradesite.com/2001summerglen.htm 

The following are preliminary shots of finish out.  See below for construction photos.   Professional photos will be available by Sept. 15

Wood framing and metal construction for the rotonda, insulation board.  

The Massey residence (rendering above), journal of construction follows.