Where Everyone Can Be
in Their Element
Our History
Element Ranch began as a personal retreat for Marco and Jessica Nicolayevsky and their family. As Houston residents, they sought a place to nurture the parts of themselves that busy city life didn’t allow while connecting with nature alongside their young children and Bernese Mountain Dog.
Jessica’s childhood memories of weekends spent on her great uncle’s ranch played a major role in the choice of location. Round Top’s rustic charm and natural beauty mirrored everything she loved about her upbringing. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Marco and Jessica expanded their plans, transforming their vision for a second home into the luxury estate that is now Element Ranch—a place to share their love of hospitality and the restorative power of nature.
Our Purpose & Inspiration
At the heart of Element Ranch is the belief that the elements—air, water, earth, fire and space (aether)—shape our experience of the world. During the pandemic, while homeschooling her kindergartener, Jessica discovered the rich history and philosophy of the elements, across disparate cultures from Aristotle’s writings to cultural practices in remote Himalayan villages. This profound connection between nature and humanity inspired the design of Element Ranch.
Beyond the traditional four elements, the estate also embraces aether, or space—Aristotle’s fifth element. Every aspect of Element Ranch has been thoughtfully created to foster a deeper connection to one’s inner self, nature, and loved ones, allowing guests to experience serenity and harmony with the natural forces around them.
Our Estate
In collaboration with Scott Cowell of Prim Haus, a Washington, D.C. based design studio, Element Ranch was designed with clean lines, natural materials, and thoughtful details to ensure guests experience both luxury and beauty. Masterfully crafted by Mill Creek Custom Homes, the Estate showcases quality and attention to detail that bring the design vision to life. Whether staying in The Villa or one of The Retreats, guests are enveloped by the timeless charm of the Texas countryside and the Estate’s luxurious design.
