From Concept to Climate Responsive

The VISION House Austin showcases cutting-edge building materials, climate-responsive design, and eco-conscious interiors, for a new standard of sustainable living.

Sustainability, innovation, and thoughtful design converge in VISION House Austin, a high-profile project spearheaded by builder Justin Moore, CEO of White Elephant General Contractors, interior designer Jacquelyn Bilek, owner of Jacquelyn Bilek Interiors, and sustainable architect pioneer Peter Pfeiffer of Barley|Pfeiffer Architecture. 

As envisioned, VISION House Austin will enable its elderly owners to age in place with a low maintenance, highly resilient, net zero energy sustainable home. CREDIT: Courtesy of Barley|Pfeiffer Architecture

Here are four ways that developers have raised the sustainability bar with special design and construction techniques used for VISION House Austin.

1. Embracing New Innovations

For Moore, VISION House Austin provided an opportunity to explore advanced building techniques that enhance durability and energy efficiency. “The most important thing we learned through this project is about innovative waterproofing systems,” Moore shares. “The [Henry Building Envelope System] was new for us, and it’s a great system. It was so easy to use—instead of having to nail everything on, you just peel and stick it on, making installation a breeze.”

The team also delved into new technologies such as improved roof ventilation, solar energy integration, and surveillance systems. These elements augment the home’s self-sufficiency and meet the expectations of modern homeowners looking for resilient, low-maintenance living spaces.

2. Sustainable Interiors With Purpose

Bilek brought her expertise in eco-conscious interiors to the project, focusing on aesthetics and functionality. 

She emphasized the home’s aging-in-place principles. “It’s an ADA-compliant home, which I don’t get to do all the time,” she explains. “We carefully designed the home so that the owners can age in place comfortably.”

Material selection played a crucial role in achieving sustainability goals. "Barley|Pfeiffer Architecture likes to use light-colors on floors and countertops to reflect light, reducing the need for artificial lighting,” Bilek notes. “So, I made selections that bounce light throughout the space, making rooms look bigger and brighter.” 

3. Designed for Climate Resilience

VISION House Austin was carefully crafted to withstand the unpredictable and extreme climate conditions of Texas. “You get into Texas, and it’s 110 degrees one day and then 20 degrees the next,” Moore remarks. “You never know these days what you’re going to get—and if the grid can withstand nature’s fury.” 

To combat these fluctuations, the team incorporated a James Hardie siding product that is more than three times thicker than traditional options. “It’s going to last a lot longer, along with the metal roof, solar system, and battery backups,” Moore says. “For the homeowners, who are in their 80s, that’s more important than anything.”

The home also features spray foam insulation, custom water tables, and Andersen windows that require minimal maintenance. “The windows won’t need to be changed or maintained, at least for the next 20 years,” Moore highlights. These elements make the home not only more durable but also more efficient in managing energy consumption.

4. A Favorite Feature: The Screened Porch

Amidst all the state-of-the-art innovations, Moore and Bilek found themselves drawn to one standout feature: the screened porch. “The way they positioned it, capturing the breeze that flows through the screens with the view over the cliff…that, to me, is my favorite part of the whole house,” says Moore. 

Bilek echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the passive cooling benefits and the comfort the porch provides, even in the intense Texas heat.

VISION House Austin isn’t just a demonstration of what’s possible—it’s a testament to the power of collaboration, smart design, and a commitment to sustainability. With Peter Pfeiffer’s decades of experience, Moore’s competency in construction and Billick’s vision for interiors, this home represents a model for the future—one where resilience, efficiency, beauty, wellness, and comfort go hand in hand.