Matsen House, Austin, Texas
historical marker
The Matsen House, located in Austin, Travis County, Texas, was built in 1953. This two-story home was constructed for Frederick Albert Matsen, a distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Physics at the University of Texas at Austin, and his wife, Cecelia Christina Matsen. Austin architects Carlton Brush and Joseph Buffler designed the residence. The house exhibits Mid-Century Modern and International architectural elements. It features limestone walls, cedar shakes, a flat roof, and large windows that emphasize horizontal lines and natural light. The design also incorporated the slope of the site. Frederick Albert Matsen taught at the University of Texas for over 50 years. He was a pivotal force in establishing the university's first computer center in 1950 and served as its first director. The Matsen House was designated a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 2011. The Texas Historical Commission erected a historical marker at the site in the same year. This marker recognizes the house's architectural significance and its association with Frederick Albert Matsen's contributions to the university and the field of science.