Kerimov Architects Evoking The Power of Place, An Organic, Fluid-like Form Takes Dynamic Shape At The Edge of A River In Texas
Situated on a distinctive forested plot, bordered by a river on both sides, Riverwave is a rigorous work of residential architecture by the prize-winning international firm Kerimov Architects, recognized with prestigious honors such as the Red Dot Award 2024, WAF 2024, MasterPrize 2023, and many others. Bridging the built environment and the natural world, it is an elegant and unaffected expression of the firm’s drive to create original architecture with a personalized approach.
“For us, each new project marks a significant step in our ongoing exploration of architecture,” explains Shamsudin Kerimov, CEO and co-founder of Kerimov Architects, who served as principal architect on the project along with architects Ekaterina Kudinova, Alexander Zhatov, and Asel Ravilova.
“Our philosophy is built on the principle that each place has its own unique architecture. This project exemplifies that idea.”
Inspired by water, the residence is in many ways its reflection, from its flowing façade and dramatic transparency to the transfixing falls of its sculptural roofline.
“When we first visited the site,” Shamsudin Kerimov says, “I felt there should be something soft and fluid that would harmonize with nature. Nearby, a river flows peacefully, accompanied by a gentle wind that sways the tree crowns. It seemed essential to create something infused with the energy of this environment.”
In sitting by the water, he noted how the small waves near the edge overlapped one another.
“Waves in the river differ from those in the sea and the ocean,” he explains. “They are much softer and calmer.”
Judging by Riverwave as it now stands, one might even say hypnotic. Shamsudin Kerimov’s thoughtful considerations of not only the water, but the wind and the shape of the shoreline, as well, were instrumental in helping the architectural team ascertain points of reference that would ultimately guide their work with volume and form. They also sought to keep the site open, allowing sunlight to reach every corner of both the residence and the surrounding area.
The result is a residence that replicates the client’s desire for an “architecture characterized by softer lines, rather than the rigid formality of classical design” yet also comfortable with the feeling of home (a place where, as expressed to the architects, the client could smell baking in the kitchen when at work in his office). Accommodating several relatives was another important directive.
“Therefore, making a family seat in the modern and future sense was necessary,” Shamsudin Kerimov says.
Accounting for every imperative, the architects merged their client’s marching orders with their own innovative ideas, creating a home based on the principles of openness and integration, designing it as a single volume without divisions to enhance the integrity of its architectural appearance.
Aesthetically, the building is unambiguously humanistic, if not also futuristic—a bolder inquiry into the future of residential architecture itself.
“We aimed to find a balance between traditional principles and modern, futuristic forms,” Shamsudin Kerimov explains.
“While many houses follow conservative construction methods, there are also extremely modern designs that differ significantly from the norm. We managed to create a harmonious transition between these two, resulting in a sort of symbiosis that incorporates the best elements of each design approach.”
In the case of Riverwave, this approach included a focus on sustainability, with eco-friendly materials and practices used throughout the building process.
Predicated on a meticulous architectural plan, Shamsudin Kerimov says, “The layout fosters a sense of intimacy and privacy, while the thoughtful openness enhances the feeling of seclusion. Paradoxically, the more open the space, the greater the sense of privacy. One can even compare this to the feeling of seclusion experienced in an open field, a forest, or at the riverbank, where, despite lacking walls or a roof, one can still feel remarkably private.”
On the first level, there are spaces designated for public functions, including a living room, a kitchen with a dining area, a lounge, a home theater, a gym, and a spa, along with utility rooms and an exhibition garage. The second level is more private, featuring the master bedroom, a master bathroom, guest suites with bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as children’s rooms and a study. With vertical connectivity present on each of the three sides of the residence, the entire space is open and interconnected, furthering the feeling of spaciousness and flow.
The residence’s relationship to nature is especially conspicuous. Most notably in that dynamic roofline. Made of natural slate, this design-defining feature reflects the soft lines of the riverbank and the smooth contours of the landscape, with wavy cascades strategically placed for privacy. Spectacular panoramic glazing creates a sense of allegiance between interior and exterior. As a key compositional element, an interior central courtyard preserves existing pine trees, putting a thriving piece of forest at the heart of the home.
“The building’s formation was guided by the desire to maintain these trees and to integrate the natural landscape into the living space as much as possible,” notes Shamsudin Kerimov, speaking to a broader commitment to biophilic design.
Following the firm’s successful Hidden House project in Portugal—a winner of 17 international awards—Riverwave “marks a new chapter for us,” Shamsudin Kerimov says.
“We believe this project can truly transform the concept of future homes, making them just as cozy while being more harmoniously connected with nature.”
Kerimov Architects | kerimovarchitects.com
Photos: Kerimov Architect