O. Carl Happel

There are many architects names that are universally recognized, Frank Lloyd Wright for example. Then there are those names that are well known to local architecture fans like our own A. D Stenger. But for every well know architect there are countless others that go unnoticed, and not because they weren't talented or deserving of recognition. If you are a true architect nerd like me those names like Herbert Crume, John S Chase, Barton Riley, or Roland Roessner may ring a bell. Today I'd like to introduce you to another. O. Carl Happel.

5102 Ridge Oak Drive : Arthur Fehr

This week I thought I'd give you a sneak peek of the home I'll be at tomorrow for the Mid Century Modern homes tour "Austin 1964!".

5102 Ridge Oak Drive was built in 1949 for Arthur Fehr and his family by Fehr & Granger. He lived in the home until his death in 1969, and his wife would remain in the home until the 1990’s. The home is an excellent example of mid century modern architecture with it’s use of expansive sections of glass connecting the inside with the out, and the minimal ornamentation. The recent home owners purchased the home 2010 and are the 4th owners. Once moved in, they waited 3 years before undertaking a minimal remodel so that they would be able to become better acquainted with the home.

HomesCreede FitchApril 4, 2014MCM Homes, Home Tour, Highland HillsComment

Mid Century Modern Homes Tour : Austin 1964

Next week is Preservation Austin's annual homes tour, and I'm super excited that this years theme is mid century modern homes in Austin. There is a surprisingly rich culture of mid century modern architecture in Austin, with some of the early local architects having studied under or worked with greats like Neutra, Saarinen and Gropius. The result was some very progressive mid century homes that were adapted to meet the climate and vernacular of Texas hill country. This year the tour will feature 5 homes, two of which were the personal homes of the architects that designed them.