We've been discussing the extraordinaire transformation in Austin's Midtown, specifically the Brentwood / Crestview Neighborhoods for 2years now. I've witnessed a lot of tear downs making way for new homes and condo style projects (accessory units is another topic for later). I am always excited when a home can be restored and brought back to life as was 1407 Arcadia Ave in Brentwood. This was a personal project through a partnership with River Rock Builders, who has remodeled my last 2 primary residence. The original owners of this home were fantastic people and stewards to the neighborhood for 50+ years. The Farmers were my neighbors....Vernon was a graduate of both UT and A&M, but always donned a Longhorn shirt. Mrs Farmer would harvest pecans from their 5+ trees on their property each year for tasty treats.
River Rock Builders and I evaluated the current layout and decided to take off much of the sunken rear addition that housed a large living/dining and kitchen that was relocated off the carport. This would allow us to use the original structure, which was a 2beds / 1bath and large living/dining plus small kitchen. While the structure would go down to the studs so we could redo plumbing and electrical (as well as finally insulate the exterior walls), the wood floors would eventually be sanded and finished. The bedrooms and bath stayed true to the original layout, but the front living room was converted into a new home office / study closed off by barn doors hung from a track used in a 1920's home in Clarksville. We then added a spacious laundry room off the hallway that now leads you to the heart of the home. The addition begins as you enter the dramatic kitchen that sports 11ft ceilings, extra tall cabinets, glass subway tile backsplash and Cararra marble counters. The added height in the ceilings truly offers a grandiose feeling that draws you in. You can look out to the living room with vaulted 16ft ceilings and are literally surrounded by rear and side walls of windows. A huge picture window offers views out to the backyard, with it's towering Pecan trees (Mrs Farmer always had an abundant harvest in the Fall).
The master bedroom is tucked away in it's own back corner of the house, with more views to relaxing backyard and vaulted ceilings. The builder added a nice touch with pendant reading lights for each side of the bed. The master bath does not disappoint with separated floating vanities, a private water closet and a 2 person walk-in shower! Truly best appreciated in person and envied by friends. Oh, don't miss the walk-in master closet.Once an old workshop, the back structure was rebuilt and re-purposed into a functional studio, home office, kids play area...endless options. With new hardi-siding, windows, electrical and sheetrock, we completed with a nice wide plank laminate floor. A wall unit was installed to provide air/heat. Measuring at about 450 sq ft, the builder carved out a small section for a covered patio...rainy days watching Fall football seems like a great idea!
I might be biased as the owner of this property, but feel the builder and I ultimately delivered a home that integrates to the character of the neighborhood. We pulled together a custom layout and unique design aspects, and River Rock Builders executed with their usual pride in construction. At the first open house we received many compliments from buyers and neighbors about various features: some were keen to the exterior design with it's sloped front porch, may were wowed about the integration of new wood floors to the original, almost all thought the kitchen / living / dining areas made the home with it's backyard views, interior finishes and soaring ceilings.We are already under contract and scheduled to close later in November! For a full view of this remodel, please check out the virtual tour. Thinking about selling your neighborhood home in Midtown, contact me about the way we can best showcase your home to buyers. Successful projects like this have helped me learn what buyers are looking for and how cater listings to their likings! You can also learn more about these neighborhoods at my neighborhood focused web site at www.johndunham.com
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