When Rame Hruska, AIA, and Russell Hruska, AIA, decided to design and build their own live/work studio and residence, they didn’t stop at the borders of their site. Instead, the Houston couple also developed several surrounding lots, designing and building modern houses for custom clients—“people with like-minded values,” Rame Hruska says.
Within the neighborhood they’ve created, the Hruskas have devoted their home’s first floor to the office of their firm, Intexure Architects. The Hruskas, associate Shawn Gottschalk, Assoc. AIA, and a rotating cast of interns populate the 1,500-square-foot studio (shown at left), which receives plenty of natural light and ventilation. Upstairs, a 650-square-foot area functions exclusively as living quarters for the Hruskas and their 3-year-old son, Tad, while another 850 square feet serves as flexible space.
Simple materials and finishes helped control the live/work project’s cost. Its vibe is relaxed and friendly, right down to the Intexure-designed community pavilion outside.