Sometimes you drive through a neighborhood and find that one home that just doesn't belong. Growing up in NW Austin there was a house in my old neighborhood where the owners converted their mid '70's home into areal life castle! Others just don't fit the mold for 1 reason or another.
The home at 5617 Kayview in the Villages of Western Oaks fits this bill. Tucked back towards the rear of the lot, next to an open field, it truly does not match any of the other standard homes built in the '90's. But it's where the uniqueness and charm of 78704 intersects with the quiet setting of Southwest Austin. An area of town supported by Wholefoods, Chuy's Tex-Mex Restaurant and Dick Nichols Pool / Park, and a lot setting that will make you feel like you're in the Hill Country.
The original owners purchased this lot back in 2004 and the husband's focus, a retired engineer, was more on sustainability, energy efficiency and character vs conforming with neighborhood homes. For starters, the home was pushed back on the lot, away from the street for added privacy. Next, they opted for a pier and beam foundation over slab. Storage was important, so he designed several exterior walls into hidden closets behind what looks like the typical siding.
Inside the home they worked with soaring ceilings, exposed wood beams and minimal wall placement that only separates the 2 bedrooms from the rest of the house. However even those walls did not close off the bedrooms entirely to the ceiling, allowing the 3 wall units to circulate air in an efficient manner. Most times I've been to the property, only one unit is running to comfortably cool the house! Together with one of the heirs, we used old bookcases of her parents to define a study / library in the front corner of the house ~ just enough to provide a bit of privacy.
The kitchen provides ample cabinet space and sprawling counters, with a gas range. When anchored by a mobile center island, the kitchen becomes a wonderful gathering spot where family and guests can mingle, and the family chef still has room to conduct their work! A dining area flanks the kitchen that can be used for informal meals or holiday gatherings. Forget the holiday dishes / mess and take a few steps into the family room where you'll find a beautifully accented fireplace in the heart of the home to gather around.
There are multiple balcones and private outdoor settings to enjoy the calmness of the open field next to the home. Each bedroom has a small landing, which their father called his 'cigar balcony'. Off the main family area is a small deck the previous owners would enjoy morning coffee / paper, or an evening sip of their favorite beverage.
To say the home is 'unique' does not pay tribute to the careful thought and attention to detail put in this design. Prior to listing we decided on a classic white exterior, dark charcoal trim and fresh white interior to showcase the architecture. The 3 sisters involved with selling their parents home, along with myself, were very pleased with the end result. After receiving multiple offers the first weekend, we all believe the parents would be pleased with how their home was presented!
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