Laurel Haven Homes crafts a sleek tranquil oasis sitting atop the most popular lake in Central Texas.

The Client

Husband and wife Bob and Melinda are the proud homeowners of this architectural marvel. They are retired tech entrepreneurs who chose Austin as their haven for a serene, family-focused lifestyle. Their shared vision was to build a home that would serve as a sanctuary for themselves and a cherished place for their grandson and family. They aspired to create a residence that would foster unforgettable family moments and encapsulate their journey from the fast-paced world of tech to a tranquil retirement by the lakeside.

The Project

When the homeowners sought to make their dream home a reality, they found their perfect partners in Laurel Haven Homes. Their involvement spanned the entire project, from initial conceptualization to completion, forming a symbiotic partnership with Vanguard Studio architects. “The design process with the builder, designer and architects involved took a full year. The build of this gorgeous custom home overlooking Lake Travis took two years,” says Regina Cotroneo of Laurel Haven Homes, the project’s principal designer.

The Priority

The primary focus for the couple when conceptualizing their dream home was creating a space that prioritized family. “Their goal was to make a home with their grandchild in mind and a retreat where their family could gather, and memories would be made,” Cotroneo explained. Every design choice, from the open floor plan to the child-friendly spaces, was meticulously made to encourage togetherness.

The Design

On this project, the mission was to blend the sleek, industrial modern aesthetic that appealed to him with the soft , warm luxury that she desired. The design drew inspiration from the natural palette of the landscape, encompassing rich neutrals, the vast Texas sky, and the organic presence of the adjacent lake. The home’s interiors showcase dark neutrals set against stark white walls, allowing the remarkable views to become integral to the indoor ambiance. The design cleverly juxtaposes modern architectural elements within the rustic Texas hill country setting, creating a stark contrast that encapsulates the essence of contemporary living amid Lake Travis’s rolling hills.

The Details

This luxurious home, set against the backdrop of the Austin hill country, is an exquisite blend of industrial modernity and comfortable luxury. The expansive glass walls and open-plan design welcome natural light and offer breathtaking views of the nearby lake. Warm woods and rich, neutral tones inject warmth into the minimalist aesthetic, making the space inviting. Unique details, such as the captivating floating stair system, serve as functional art pieces, adding to the home’s overall charm.

The Challenge

Constructing this gorgeous home amid the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic posed numerous unexpected challenges. The onset of the pandemic resulted in significant supply chain disruptions, causing substantial delays in the delivery of building materials. Additionally, staffing shortages added to the complexity of the project. Despite these hurdles, the team at Laurel Haven Homes displayed remarkable resilience and adaptability, ensuring the project moved forward against all odds.

The Outcome

Despite the trials faced during construction, the final result was a lakeside oasis. This exquisite family-friendly retreat realized the homeowners’ dream and set a new standard in harmonizing contrasting aesthetics. The home now is a space that fosters cherished moments and lasting memories for the family.