Architecture is one of the rare art forms that invites the viewer into the work. Instead of being a passive observer, we can traipse and touch, interact and marvel. This year, the AIA Austin Homes Tour, arguably Austin's premier architecture tour, is back with it's most exciting lineup to date. Now in its 32nd year, the AIA Austin Homes Tour 2018 runs October 27-28, and showcases 14 of the best homes in Austin (and one in San Marcos).
Like most years, the weekend features some of the most prominent and impressive architecture firms in the city including A Parallel Architecture, A. Gruppo Architects, Chas Architects, Clayton & Little, Dick Clark + Associates, FAB Architecture, Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects, Jay Hargrave Architecture, Matt Fajkus Architecture, Restructure Studio, Side Angle Side, Tim Cuppett Architects, Webber + Studio Architects, and Weiss Architecture.
On display is a range of styles from opulent new construction (we're looking at you, Dick Clark + Associates) to a swank '70s remodel from A. Gruppo's expert team. The self-guided tour runs both Saturday and Sunday from 10 am-6 pm.
For the first time ever, AIA Austin will offer special VIP wristbands, available for $75, which include a T-shirt, attendance to one architect-led tour of a selected tour home, and an invitation to the after-party on the evening of October 28.
Tickets are on sale now for $35 online or in-person at AIA Austin, Arete Kitchens, Nannie Inez, and Urbanspace. Wristbands can also be purchased during the tour for $45.
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10th Street Home
Clarksville
Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects
This project was a preservation/celebration of the historic character of the original house, a structure built by Austin builder Nick Dawson.
10th Street Home
Clarksville
Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects
The structure's steel catwalk offers dramatic views of downtown Austin.
Lakeview Residence
Lake Austin
A Parallel Architecture
Nestled on a cliff-lined bend on the Colorado River, this home features sweeping panoramas.
Lakeview Residence
Lake Austin
A Parallel Architecture
The 4,600-square-foot new construction home is accompanied by ammenities like a swimming pool, terrace, gardens, and a detached boat house.
The Bohn House
Old West Austin
Dick Clark + Associates
A renovation of the historic Bohn House, this home merges the owners' need for a modern lifestyle with the original characteristics of the building.
The Bohn House
Old West Austin
Dick Clark + Associates
The home's original architect was said to be inspired by a 1937 film and its depiction of Shangri-la.
Balcones Residence
Colorado Foothills
Clayton & Little
This home was originally designed in the 1950s by architect and UT professor Roland Roessner. The house is also notable for its concrete beam balcony, which overlooks Camp Mabry.
Balcones Residence
Colorado Foothills
Clayton & Little
The owners embraced the home's midcentury history in both its renovation and the interior design.
Laman Residence
Willow Creek, San Marcos
A. Gruppo Architects
This unique project included both a renovation and an addition of new construction. One of the key features are the outdoor "rooms" which provide the family with additional living space.
Laman Residence
Willow Creek, San Marcos
A. Gruppo Architects
Among the highlights of this property are a gallery, studio, library, and master suite.
Bridle Path Residence
Tarrytown
FAB Architecture
A 1940s house, sitting among the oak trees, required a modern addition that still respected the integrity of the original home.
Bridle Path Residence
Tarrytown
FAB Architecture
Both the kitchen and living room were relocated to the new two-story addition, a building that also includes children's play areas and bedrooms.
1902 Mountain View
Tarrytown
Chas Architects
The architects chose to build "inward" and focus the design around the pool and courtyard, maximizing space and privacy.
1902 Mountain View
Tarrytown
Chas Architects
"This contemporary farmhouse is a modern interpretation of traditional forms," write the architects. The new construction home features four bedrooms and four bathrooms.
W. Mary House
Jay Hargrave Architecture
Bouldin
This home was designed for an architect/realtor who wanted a minimilast design.
W. Mary House
Jay Hargrave Architecture
Bouldin
The second level is an open plan complete with a living area, second bath, and walk-in pantry.
Re-Open House
Crestview
Matt Fajkus Architecture
The "passive" design strategy attempted to find balance between natural light and simple materials.
Re-Open House
Crestview
Matt Fajkus Architecture
The renovation included opening up the space so the kitchen was part of the living area.
The Lockhart Residence
Travis Heights
Restructure Studio
Sustainable design was the common theme throughout the creation of this home, and it's on track to receive a 5-star Green Building rating from Austin Energy.
The Lockhart Residence
Travis Heights
Restructure Studio
In addition to sustainable design, the home is filled with thoughtful interiors and numerous smart home features.
The Allen Street House
East Austin
Side Angle Side
Built for an architectural photographer, the inspiration for this house came when the owner brought Side Angle Side a simple, fundamental shape for the design.
The Allen Street House
East Austin
Side Angle Side
"While we didn’t set out to make a Marfa house in Austin, it certainly inspired design decisions in terms of materiality — the modest and minimal, while also maintaining a sense of warmth," said the owner.
Eva Street House
Travis Heights
Tim Cuppett Architects
Located on a pedestrian filled street off South Congress, the owners wanted the home to feel friendly and inviting.
Eva Street House
Travis Heights
Tim Cuppett Architects
The infill was designed for empty nesters. Its open, modern design was tempered to fit the historical context of the neighborhood.
Welcome II the Dawn
Cuernavaca
Webber + Studio
This single-family home was built to balance minimalism with the surrounding Texas landscape.
Welcome II the Dawn
Cuernavaca
Webber + Studio
Subtle nods to Prince, one of the owner's favorite artists, can be found throughout the home.
The Bough House
South Congress/Bouldin
Weiss Architects
This house was built for Austin artists Evan Voyles and Gail Chovan and the family. It is a setback steel structure designed around a preserved cottage.
The Bough House
South Congress/Bouldin
Weiss Architects
This project, which began in 2005, was completed in 2017 and has the distinct honor of being the longest active residential permit in Austin.
