Welcome Home

As the temperature rises and summer daydreaming begins, we're thrilled to focus on everything related to dreamy homes in this issue. Moving into our sleepy neighborhood nearly two decades ago, it’s both a little hard and a little exciting to see incredible homes of this caliber in East Austin. On one hand, change it hard. My grandmother (whose family settled in East Austin in the 1800s) would probably flip in her grave to see the concrete jungle that has replaced the woods she walked through leading her to the river for her daily catch. On the other hand, she might bask in the modern conveniences. Such as, she could now walk to Este (read more on pg.44) and have her fresh fish prepped to perfection, brought to her table by a delightful server, for her to utterly enjoy mouthwatering coastal flavor combinations. Her family were master carpenters and built many of the old homes that used to make up Waterloo (now Austin). She would definitely turn over in her grave to know that a machine can now spew out concrete to form clean, yet undulating, walls to build some of the most beautiful and efficient structures on the planet—in a matter of days.

In this issue, we showcase some of the most stunning homes in our community. From a cozy oasis in the epicenter of town to ICON's House Zero, which is revolutionizing the future of home building to a turn-of-the-century home that honors its past while embracing modern conveniences. They each reflect the innovation and openness of the East Austin community, which pay homage to classic elements while also embracing the future.

Home encompasses the entire community of people living and working together. In this issue, we highlight the individuals who make this community unique. From local craftsmen to farmers to artisans, it’s the small businesses that make up a community, and that hasn’t changed. From insurance agencies, to mortgage brokers, to home builders, we’ve also showcased some local pros who support the community with their expertise and services.

Our homes issue seeks to intrigue you to find local sources of inspiration for your living spaces to create a home that reflects your personality and style. We hope that you not only enjoy reading this issue of EASTside Magazine but that it also reminds you that you are living the dream when you get to exist on this unique, eclectic piece of land that we call East Austin.

Cheers!

Will & Ashley Bowling

On the Cover

This home by Merzbau Design Collective shows a refreshing twist on what happens when a talented architect and stylish client's vision merge to design a home with vibrant details that also places function at the center of its form. Photographed by Leonid Furmansky

Creative Director

Will Bowling

Publishing Editor

Ashley Bowling

Asst. Editor & Events

Abby L. Johnson

Business Development

Will Bowling

Copy Editor

Pam Bowen

Media Relations

Joanna Fuller

Austin, Texas 78722 eastsideatx.com Thank

Contributing Photographers

Eric Morales, Leonid Furmansky, Baptiste Despois, Will Bowling

Contributing Writers

Jessi Devenyns, Meher Qazilbash, Tanya White, Janine Stankus, Joanna Fuller, Deven Wilson, Chris Ferguson

Distribution

Will Bowling Submissions info@eastsideatx.com

Advertising advertise@eastsideatx.com

Tiffany Hentrup