A Timeless Texas Retreat: La Barroneña Ranch House Reimagined

In a rare opportunity for reflection and renewal, Texan architect Ted Flato has revisited La Barroneña, a ranch house he originally designed in 1985. This renovation, commissioned by the property's second-generation owners, allows Flato to revisit the foundational principles that shaped his architectural philosophy and the Lake Flato firm he co-founded.

La Barroneña, nestled on 6,000 acres of rugged Texas landscape near Laredo, has been a cherished family retreat for over a century. Ed Lasater, the current owner, fondly recalls childhood memories of camping with family on the ranch. His parents initially sought the expertise of Texas modernism pioneer O’Neil Ford, who recommended Flato for the project. The result was a design that harmonized with its natural surroundings while embracing environmentally sensitive practices.

Flato's original vision was to create a structure that felt more like a grand porch than a conventional house. The design features expansive overhangs and breezeways that encourage airflow, capitalizing on the cool breezes from the Gulf of Mexico. Inside, the layout promotes a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, with large glass doors framing views of the landscape.

Since taking over ownership in 2012, the Lasaters have expanded the ranch’s amenities, adding a pool and a Porch House designed by Lake Flato that increased sleeping capacity to accommodate family gatherings. However, as the family grew, the kitchen's functionality became a pressing concern. Ed Lasater emphasized the importance of preserving the original character of the house while making thoughtful updates.

The recent renovation focused on enhancing the home’s interiors without compromising its essence. Lake Flato's associate partner Vicki Yuan and senior interiors associate Pamela Dailey led the project, which included integrating new finishes and furnishings that blend with the existing aesthetic. The updated kitchen now offers a modern, multi-use space that caters to both everyday meals and larger family gatherings.

New materials, including engineered stone countertops and textured tiles, were chosen to complement the house's original brick floors and timber cabinetry. Additional features like a cozy dining nook were also introduced, enhancing the home's capacity to host family members comfortably. Lasater expressed satisfaction with the thoughtful updates, noting that they have revitalized the house while preserving its beloved character.

Source: www.wallpaper.com