Modern design, please! (Austin, Victoria, Richmond: real estate, apartment, loft)

[MaybeAngel]

We are considering a move to the Austin area from Richmond, VA , looking for specific non-Virginia, contemporary design elements. We don't care for chair railings, dark cabinets or floors or fussy Victorian details.

Really looking for homes with all white (or extremely light) cabinetry and flooring (preferably tile), vaulted ceilings, open plan, one-story, 3 bedroom, 1500- 2000 square feet with garage, no more than 25 years old, under $250K, not too far outside Austin, or within, though that will probably not be an option given our desired price range. Prefer single family but would consder other one-story options.

We are a software engineer and producer/announcer/writer for public radio in our mid 40's with no debt now so we don't want to be house poor if we buy another one. We have no school-age children.

We want to live in a safe neighborhhod; maybe even a planned community but emphasis on empty nesters and older children neighborhoods. Safe running and walking areas are a must as is well-maintained lawns, homes, etc.

Any ideas/suggestions are much appreciated.

Thank you!

[Exiled Texan]

Google Modern Austin. I believe they highlighted some really cool modern developments in East Austin that fit your description.

[ROY DUBOSE]

we've got one up the street from us that's more money but really centrally located -- it's 1600 sqft, garage, kewl austin neighborhood - course, it's more money -- dm n i'll send you a picture

[MaybeAngel]

Ooh, I am in major design lust - hope springs eternal.

Roy, I just sent you 2 dm.

Thank you both.

[homeinatx]

Modern Homes | Central Austin Real Estate | Agave

[CptnRn]

I suggest you consider moving into a very modern apartment or loft in downtown Austin, while you become more familiar with the area. There are many available and depending on where you work you can avoid the high cost of commuting. All of Austin is relatively safe, with low violent crime rates and great amenities for those who live downtown.

That will give you time to find the house of your dreams in Austin. There are many wonderful modern homes here, but they are spread out and few in one location. The University of Austin has an school of
Architecture, both bachelors and masters degrees, which has resulted in Austin having some remarkable residential buildings in the area. These days modern design in Austin incorporates both native design elements and materials as well as a huge concern for energy efficiency and sustainability.

Many of the design elements specifically appropriate to the Austin area are illustrated in this brochure for a new planned development in SE Austin.

http://alt.coxnewsweb.com/statesman/...10_develop.pdf

[kiacook]

That place looks like it's going to be amazing.

[verybadgnome]

I like Agave except the location is a bit in the middle of nothing. I'd look at Sol Austin (SOL Austin :: Modern Austin Homes :: home) as an alternative. It's supposed to be the first energy self-sufficient development in Austin.

[centralaustinite]

Agave is not "a bit in the middle of nothing" it is a seriously disadvantaged location! Dog kennels, the county prison, and a couple of run-down gas stations! There is BAE, and the KIPP school and child protective services, and the water treatment plant (these are the pluses) but it is a long drive into Austin.

The homes look great but you are really risking your money, very difficult to resell.

[TheyCallMeDerek]

Plenty of options in Austin for you!