![BV1 Residence by Wernerfield Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/08/bv1-residence-wernerfield-architecture_dezeen_hero-1-852x479.jpg)
Wernerfield organises slender Dallas residence around pool terrace and garden
For a narrow plot in Dallas, local studio Wernerfield has created a home for a young couple that consists of off-white bars situated around a single yard.
![BV1 Residence by Wernerfield Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/08/bv1-residence-wernerfield-architecture_dezeen_2364_col_16.jpg)
The BV1 Residence is located in the upscale Bluffview neighbourhood of the Texas city, and sits on a 50-by-150-foot (15-by-46-metre) property that is part of a larger estate. The owners are a young couple who work in retail merchandising and love to entertain friends.
![BV1 Residence by Wernerfield Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/08/bv1-residence-wernerfield-architecture_dezeen_2364_col_6.jpg)
"They approached our firm to design their first home for themselves and their two St Bernard dogs," said Wernerfield, a local studio led by architects Braxton Werner and Paul Field. "Modern was a must and the budget was modest."
![BV1 Residence by Wernerfield Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/08/bv1-residence-wernerfield-architecture_dezeen_2364_col_7.jpg)
The clients wanted large expanses of glass that would open the home to the outdoors, but also wanted a sense of privacy – a challenging request given that the rectangular building site was parallel to a busy road. Plus, for optimal sun orientation, the architects wanted to open up the street-facing west elevation.
![BV1 Residence by Wernerfield Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/08/bv1-residence-wernerfield-architecture_dezeen_2364_col_9.jpg)
In response, rather than incorporating a traditional front and backyard, the team created a single outdoor space in the front of the home. A series of "pods" are organised around this central courtyard, which features a garden and a slender swimming pool. To block views from the street, the team installed a long fence made of weathering steel.
![BV1 Residence by Wernerfield Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/08/bv1-residence-wernerfield-architecture_dezeen_2364_col_3.jpg)
"By focusing the views and budget on a single central courtyard, we were able to fulfil the owners' request for ample floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors," the team said, noting that both the master bedroom and main living area open onto the courtyard.
![BV1 Residence by Wernerfield Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/08/bv1-residence-wernerfield-architecture_dezeen_2364_col_13.jpg)
Totalling 3,600 square feet (334 square metres), the residence has three pods, each serving a different programmatic function. The central pod houses a cooking, dining and living area fitted with polished concrete flooring and wooden cabinetry. A retractable glass wall enables the space to be fully open to the outdoors.
![BV1 Residence by Wernerfield Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/08/bv1-residence-wernerfield-architecture_dezeen_2364_col_15.jpg)
To the north of the central pod is a two-storey volume housing private functions. A master suite and an office are situated on the ground level, and a bedroom and media room are located on the second floor.
![BV1 Residence by Wernerfield Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/08/bv1-residence-wernerfield-architecture_dezeen_2364_col_11.jpg)
The third pod, located to the south, contains a garage. A glass-walled foyer with an oversized front door links the garage to the main living area.
![BV1 Residence by Wernerfield Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/08/bv1-residence-wernerfield-architecture_dezeen_2364_col_1.jpg)
"Between each pod is a compressed glass connector that provides the sensation of travelling outdoors," the architects said. The material palette was kept simple, with exterior and interior surfaces covered in off-white stucco. Dark wood siding was used as an accent in select areas.
![BV1 Residence by Wernerfield Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/08/bv1-residence-wernerfield-architecture_dezeen_2364_col_17.jpg)
The clients furnished the dwelling with an eclectic mix of decor. Many pieces were passed down from family members, and several rugs were purchased during a trip to Istanbul.
![BV1 Residence by Wernerfield Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/08/bv1-residence-wernerfield-architecture_dezeen_2364_col_18.jpg)
"Our proposed strategy for the interior was to provide a low-maintenance, relaxed atmosphere that matched the client's lifestyle," said Wernerfield, which has previously completed a lakefront dwelling that features a treehouse clad in pre-rusted steel.
Project credits:
Architect: Wernerfield
Landscape: The Garden Design Studio
Client: Charlie & Ashleigh Goyer