Oak-lined streets, a historic golf course, a nature preserve where peacocks strut their stuff. Welcome to Tarrytown, a sought-after residential neighborhood along the Colorado River in Austin, Texas.
But don’t mistake the languid environment for sleepy. The tree-shaded homes in the long-established community are near shopping, schools and a contemporary art museum housed in a 1916 Italianate villa. Downtown Austin is a short drive away.
A modern showplace set on a nearly half-acre lot is among homes now for sale in the architecturally diverse enclave.
Designed by Ryan Street Architects and built by Michael Deane Homes, the contemporary makes the most of its one vintage feature: A century-old heritage oak tree takes center stage in the courtyard and can be seen through walls of glass from many of the rooms.
A limestone entryway flanked by gas lights sits at the front of the home. Natural light floods the interiors. Blackened steel windows frame views of the outdoors. Travertine floors, Venetian plaster walls and designer light fixtures are prominent details.
The scene-stealer is a backlit-onyx fireplace in the vaulted ceiling great room. The space opens to a high-ceiling kitchen with bar seating at the center island and a glass-enclosed breakfast area.
Taking a close second in the drama department is a glass-enclosed wine wall in the atrium-like lounge, adjacent to the dark-paneled formal dining room.
The floor plan affords several options for entertaining. Beyond the interior spaces are multiple living areas on the covered terrace, which features a fireplace. A fire pit in a sunken seating area near the fountain-fed swimming pool and spa offers another possibility. Nearby is a casita.
The multi-story residence has four bedrooms and five bathrooms. The primary suite includes a marble-clad bathroom and two walk-in closets. An office/study could be converted to an additional bedroom. There’s also a multi-tier home theater.
