Some homes don’t just exist; they command. They don’t whisper for attention—they take it. This Spanish-inspired sanctuary in Austin does exactly that, blending old-world Mediterranean romance with a modernity so seamless, it feels like it was always meant to be.
Designed with an acute understanding of space, light, and restraint, this home is a rare feat—a structure that respects tradition without being trapped by it. The arched doorways, the warm, textural plaster walls, the hand-hewn wood beams—they all pay homage to the classic Spanish aesthetic, but the interpretation is sharper, cleaner, undeniably contemporary. This isn’t a replica of history. It’s a reinvention of it.
The interiors are a study in balance. The materials—stone, wood, steel—are elemental and tactile, creating a visual language that feels as organic as it is intentional. In the kitchen, a vast marble island anchors the space, its veining a natural artwork of its own. Open shelving replaces upper cabinets, allowing the walls to breathe, while large, steel-framed windows flood the room with natural light, bouncing off the soft, earthy tones of the space.
Furniture is curated, not cluttered. Sculptural chairs, artisanal ceramics, and statement lighting create an atmosphere that feels considered rather than decorated. There’s a rawness to it—a refusal to over-design.
And then there’s the outdoor space—a Mediterranean dream transplanted into the Texas landscape. A tranquil pool reflects the sky like a glassy mirage, surrounded by terracotta tiles that absorb the heat of the day, releasing it slowly as the sun sets. Lush greenery softens the architecture, spilling over courtyards and archways, creating a sense of effortless luxury that feels more like Mallorca than Austin.
This home is an exercise in quiet confidence. It doesn’t need to prove anything. It just exists—perfectly, beautifully, effortlessly.
The architectural brilliance behind this Mediterranean modern masterpiece is the work of Michael G. Imber, a San Antonio-based architect renowned for his fresh perspective on Spanish Revival styles. Collaborating with interior designer Vanessa Alexander of Alexander Design and Dalgleish Construction Company, Imber crafted a U-shaped sequence of spaces that gracefully integrate indoor and outdoor living, creating a harmonious flow throughout the home. Bill Tikos
Photography by William Jess Laird
Source: The Cool Hunter