Estate Envy: the Architecture of Austin

Man I love the mix of historic homes and modern architecture in Austin TX!

This past trip to Austin proved a much more appreciative and adventurous tour of the city. I cajoled my brother into driving me around to play a little game of “know your neighborhood” around East and South Austin, and the historic Hyde Park neighborhood. It was quite fun.

I saw this place.. which Chris had recognized in the previous issue of Dwell as a green duplex built specifically to match the socio economic needs of the neighborhood, without sticking out too much. Interesting accomplishment.

The Estate of THings chooses the Chicon Duplex

After we visited that gem, we cruised the avenues of Hyde Park. A historic neighborhood with a rich mix of Victorian homes, bungalows, modern architecture and some strange combination of the latter two. Its really interesting to see the result of years of resourceful home additions, mostly made from salvage materials. Check out the salvaged pieces in the interior of this Hyde Park home.

The Estate of Things chooses Austin Texas Architecture

Next, imagine you and your neighbors hanging out at the fences of your “low cost” housing project homes, built in early 2000. These homes are new construction, located in East Austin, a part of town that seems to hold all of the best of eclectic small business and neato neighborhoods.

The Estate of Things chooses Austin Texas Architecture The Estate of Things chooses Austin Texas Architecture

If you live in the Austin area, you are fortunate. For you had the opportunity to join the AIA Homes Tour, last weekend! How did it go?

I can’t wait to visit Austin again, and cruise the neighborhoods!

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