Designing a Dream Retreat: A Modern Texas Hill Country Spec Home
When designing a spec home, the challenge is to create a space that speaks to potential buyers—one that feels personal, yet universally appealing. For this project, the goal was to craft a home that would connect with a couple looking for a relaxing retreat, all while incorporating the natural beauty of its surroundings. The result is a stunning residence that blends modern sophistication with rustic charm, embodying a fresh take on the Texas Hill Country aesthetic.
Designing with the Lot in Mind
The home was thoughtfully designed to complement its unique setting. Tucked away in a serene neighborhood, the lot offers breathtaking wooded views out the back, creating a sense of seclusion and tranquility. The drive into the community is an experience in itself, with large trees arching overhead to create a natural canopy. We wanted the exterior elevation to make a statement, but in a way that felt organic to the landscape. Stone selections, metal roof accents, and warm white stucco help the home feel grounded and connected to its environment.
Builder: Fieldstone Homes
Interior Design: Claire House Design
Staging: Lemondrop Home
Photography: Nate Sheets
Finding the Right Design Direction
One of the biggest challenges in this project was defining what "Modern Texas Hill Country" really meant for this project. To refine our vision, we imagined the ideal homeowners: a couple in retirement, looking for their forever home to entertain and spend time with family. They appreciate clean, simple lines, but not in an overtly modern way. They love Texas-inspired elements, but in a subtle, sophisticated manner—more of a nod to Texas rather than a full ranch-style aesthetic. Keeping this narrative in mind guided our decisions and helped us strike the right balance between modern and rustic.
The Art of Balance: Rustic Meets Modern
Achieving the perfect balance between rustic and modern design was a fun but complex challenge. There was no formula—just continual refining and revising until the mix felt just right. We paired a strong black cabinet color with earthy countertops, shiplap ceilings with sleek plaster pendants, and a plaster range hood to create a sense of warmth and texture. Light fixtures played a key role, too—each one carefully chosen to bridge the gap between rustic charm and contemporary sophistication. At every turn, we asked ourselves: how can we streamline traditionally rustic elements to make them feel fresh and modern?
Working on a Tight Timeline
This home was part of the Artisan Tour, an event that occurs every two years in Kansas City, in which builders and interior designers showcase a custom home. It involves a strict timeline. There was little room for second-guessing decisions—we had to commit and keep moving. One of the project managers summed it up best: "Sometimes a house builds itself." This was one of those projects where trust in the process was key. While every decision was intentional, there was also an element of faith that everything would come together in the end—and it did.
Lessons from This Project
For anyone designing a home—whether a custom build or a spec house—here are a few key takeaways:
Define Your Vision Early: Establishing a clear design direction from the start makes decision-making smoother. Creating a persona for the home, for how you want to feel in that home, guides aesthetic choices.
Balance is Key: When blending styles, look for ways to modernize traditional elements or soften contemporary ones. This creates a timeless and inviting space.
Trust the Process: Deadlines can be daunting, but sometimes the best projects come together when you commit to decisions and move forward with confidence.
Bringing Thoughtful Interior Design to Kansas City
This project was a great example of how interior design in Kansas City can draw inspiration from regional aesthetics while embracing modern sensibilities. At Claire House Design, we specialize in creating homes that feel both beautiful and deeply personal. If you're looking to build, renovate, or furnish a home that reflects your unique style, we'd love to bring your vision to life.
To see the rest of this home, visit our portfolio page.