A Sleek Solar Roof Solved for Clean Energy—and Errant Golf Balls—for a Couple in Texas

A traditional Hill Country-style home in Austin has been given a serious upgrade with an unobtrusive solar roof that complements the architecture and surrounding natural landscape.

May 28, 2024 - 19:00

A Sleek Solar Roof Solved for Clean Energy—and Errant Golf Balls—for a Couple in Texas

A traditional Hill Country-style home in Austin has been given a serious upgrade with an unobtrusive solar roof that complements the architecture and surrounding natural landscape.

The architecture of the Fishers’ home—which was built in the early 1980s—is inspired by the traditional Hill Country style found in Central Texas and embraces natural materials such as limestone and timber.

When Jennifer and Scott Fisher moved from Buffalo, New York, to Austin, Texas, 13 years ago, they wanted to immerse themselves in the "rolling hills and infinite blue sky of Central Texas"—and sought out a home that would complement their desire for living in harmony with nature. They fell in love with a traditional Hill Country-style home adjacent to a private golf course. While it offered the perfect base to explore the great outdoors, its attractive Spanish-style clay roof tiles proved hazardous.

"It turns out those wavy cement shingles were no match for a daily barrage of golf balls, resulting in broken tiles and frequent roof leaks," explains Jennifer. "As well, we discovered critters like squirrels and ringtails can squeeze under the roof tiles and take residence in your attic!"

Jennifer and Scott work in software and education technology, and have the ability to work from home. Their move to Texas was motivated by a desire to take full advantage of the benefits of remote working and enjoy the outdoors as much as possible.
Photo: Dwell Creative Services

The couple knew that they had to renovate the roof to something more durable and decided to explore a multi-purpose roof that would not only withstand golf balls and local wildlife, but also offer clean, self-generated energy. After much research, they decided to install a Timberline Solar roof by GAF Energy. "It ticked all the boxes," says Scott. "It generates all the electricity we consume and we love the look because it’s sleek and unobtrusive."