LIVE ATX JUNE 2018 // FEATURED PROPERTY: 2601 RAVELLO RIDGE DRIVE
FEEL LIKE TRUE ROYALTY AT THIS BY CULTUREMAP CREATE
ITALIAN-INSPIRED AUSTIN VILLA
The majestic, Italian-inspired Villa Sollazzo was exquisitely built in a secluded setting among lush landscaping, offering complete privacy and total relaxation. Renowned architect Charles Travis and premier builder Dwight Dow collaborated on the stunning property in 2001, which sits at the proper address of 2601 Ravello Ridge Dr. Upon entering the 9,402-square-foot estate, you step directly into a 50-foot-tall tower and onto a mosaic marble floor masterpiece. Grand stone columns separate the formal living and dining rooms, which are flooded with light thanks to a gallery wall of windows. Serving guests is easy thanks to the hidden butler’s pantry that connects the dining room to the galley. The gourmet kitchen is open to the family room and breakfast nook, creating an impressive space that’s just right for entertaining. Down the corridor, there is a private guest suite with its own living room, bedroom, bath, and kitchenette, all overlooking the native gardens. The grand staircase leads up to a complete library that’s ideally suited to hold a grand book collection and treasured heirlooms. It also allows access to the tower for viewing watercolor sunsets. The master suite awaits with a private study, sun room, and a luxurious bath with spacious his-and-her closets. Two additional oversize bedrooms, a game room, and a utility room complete the second floor. The magnificent estate is set on 1.18 acres, offering manicured gardens and stone walkways to guide you across the grounds. A pergola and lounge showcase the pool, which is brought to life with water features and exceptional night lighting that hangs from the surrounding oak trees. The property also includes a three-car garage with workshop/hobby area and extra storage. Raised garden beds for fresh vegetables, a chicken coop, and a garden house make it simple to enjoy farm-to-table living. Dine al fresco with an authentic, brick-fired pizza oven and grill which offers an ideal spot for meals, and perfect for appreciating the charming views of the garden. Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty agent Stephanie Nick has this incomparable listing, of which you can see more at www.villasollazzo.com. S T . N I C K @ S O T H E B Y S R E A L T Y . C O M // 5 1 2 . 4 2 6 . 9 1 8 3
AUSTIN AND 3 SUBURBS BOOM AMONG T H E N AT I O N ’S FAST EST- G R OW I N G C I T I ES O R I G I N A L L Y S E E N O N C U L T U R E M A P. C O M
New figures from the U.S. Census Bureau underscore just how much bigger the Austin metro area is getting. According to Census Bureau data released May 24, Austin — and three of its suburbs — ranked among the fastestgrowing cities in the U.S. from 2016 to 2017. By John Egan
New figures from the U.S. Census Bureau underscore just how much bigger the Austin metro area is getting. According to Census Bureau data released May 24, Austin — and three of its suburbs — ranked among the fastestgrowing cities in the U.S. from 2016 to 2017. From July 1, 2016, to July 1, 2017, Austin’s population swelled by 12,515 residents, elevating the total population to 950,715 as of last July. That makes the Capital City the No. 12 fastest-growing large city in the U.S. based on number of new residents, according to the Census Bureau. On a percentage basis, three Austin suburbs were among the 15 fastest-growing U.S. cities with at least 50,000 residents. In third place for percentage growth was Pflugerville, which registered a 6.5 percent jump in population during the one-year period. It was home to 63,359 people as of last July. Shontel Mays, president and CEO of the Pflugerville Chamber of Commerce, says it’s no surprise that Pflugerville ranked third for population growth from 2016 to 2017. “Businesses are attracted to Pflugerville because of our affordability, infrastructure, and business-friendly environment. We have the space they need, a skilled workforce, and a great location along major transportation routes,” Mays says. “We’re fortunate that we’ve seen the growth coming and have had leaders in place to plan for it,” she adds. “We’re
prepared to continue growing in a way that benefits Pflugerville businesses and families.” Georgetown held down the No. 6 spot, with a 5.4 percent population spike. The city had 70,685 residents as of last July. Cedar Park ranked 13th, with a 4.2 percent growth rate. In July 2017, it had a population of 75,704. But the Austin area wasn’t the only big gainer in the Lone Star State. Neighboring San Antonio was the fastest-growing large city in the country based on total new residents. San Antonio’s population grew by 24,208 and stood at 1,511,946 as of July 1, 2017. “That’s a growth rate of 1.6 percent. This growth was enough to push San Antonio’s population above the 1.5 million mark,” Census Bureau demographer Amel Toukabri says in a release. Dallas ranked third for numeric growth among large cities, adding 18,935 residents and landing at a population of 1,341,075. Fort Worth was in fourth place with 18,664 new residents; as of last July, Fort Worth’s population was 874,168. No. 9 on the list of fastest-growing cities was the Dallas-Fort Worth suburb of Frisco, adding 13,470 residents and reaching a population of 177,286. Frisco also ranked No. 1 for percentage growth, notching an 8.2 percent increase in population from 2016 to 2017. Right behind Frisco at No. 2 was the San Antonio suburb of New Braunfels, with a growth rate of 8 percent. As of last July, its population stood at 79,152. DFW suburbs McKinney and Flower Mound ranked Nos. 9 and 11, with growth rates of 4.8 percent and 4.3 percent, respectively.
F O R M O R E A U S T I N S T O R I E S L I K E T H I S , V I S I T A U S T I N . C U L T U R E M A P. C O M
4701 ISLAND COVE
5 BEDS // 5 FUL L & 2 H A L F BAT H S // 6,2 3 0 S F // $ 6,5 0 0,0 0 0 CONTEMPORARY LAKE AUSTIN WATERFRONT ESTATE
4501 ISLAND COVE
Located in a premier location with new construction, this exceptional and contemporary Lake Austin waterfront estate will redefine the ultimate in luxury lake living. Designed to maximize the views, the open floor plan includes the main level, the master and guest suite, chef ‘s kitchen, wine room, study, and elevator. This impressive home behind the gates at the Island of Mt. Bonnell will feature 5500’ living, a 730’ guest house, pool and spa, outdoor living and kitchen and a two slip boat dock. Completion in 2018.
5 B E DS // 6 F U L L & 2 HA L F BAT H S // 1 1 ,7 74 S F // $7,7 95,0 0 0 CA’ ISOLA SERENA This magnificent estate inspired by the historic Venetian villas that line the Grand Canal was exquisitely crafted along nearly two hundred feet of Lake Austin waterfront. The meticulously maintained grounds of this property are set on a premium half-acre in the prestigious gated, waterfront community, the Island at Mount Bonnell Shores. The entire home offers views of the exquisite infinity pool and spa, overlooking the serene canal. Artistic features include vaulted groined ceilings, marble floors and columns, custom Murano glass chandeliers, imported doors and windows from Italy, hand painted frescos and finely crafted wood details and finishes.
STEPHANIE NICK
GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISOR 512.426.9183 st.nick@sothebysrealty.com stephanienick.kuperrealty.com
“Our firm is comprised of some of the most exceptional professionals in the real estate business. These films provide unprecedented insight into what makes them both unique and valuable.” J Kuper Owner and Principal Broker of KSIR
AUSTIN’S TOP REAL ESTATE AGENTS TAKE THE SPOTLIGHT
Associates and Executives of Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty (KSIR) released a series of short films, which profile agents through micro-branding, focusing on the story of each individual in order to tell the story of the greater company. Known for industry innovation, KSIR engaged Chicagobased branding house Evoker, Inc. to produce the films. The second wave of films for top agents have now been released to the public and are making the rounds on social media. “Our firm is comprised of some of the most exceptional professionals in the real estate business. These films provide unprecedented insight into what makes them both unique and valuable,” said J Kuper, Owner and Principal Broker of KSIR. “Buying or selling a home is an intensely personal process, not just a business transaction. We want to give potential clients a way to get to know our agents on a deeper level,” he continued. These micro-movies will turn the traditional agent bio video on its head. As Evoker, Inc. puts it, they’re films, not just videos—and that’s a huge differentiator. These polished films strip away the corporate umbrella and mass-produced structure of a bio video and allow the agent to simply tell their personal story. No two are ever the same.
SEE OUR STORIES KUPERSTORIES.COM
“Something beautiful shines through for every individual’s personality,” says Evoker, Inc. Founder Kameron Jackson. “This is a platform to get to know the agents themselves, not just the company. It puts the decision-making process into the buyer or seller’s hands and allows them to decide who they think is a good fit.” With videos shown to increase consumer understanding of a product or service by 85-percent, Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty has been at the forefront in their industry by integrating video technology into their marketing plan for listings, so it was a natural fit to bring the concept to the associate. According to Diode Digital, video promotion is 600% more effective than print and direct mail combined and 60% of site visitors will first watch a video before reading any text.
1612 MEGHAN LANE
5 BEDS // 5 FULL & 1 HALF BATH // 4,178 SF // $6,950,000 A MODERN OASIS FOR PRIVACY ONLY MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN Urban treehouse estate located in the coveted close-in Zilker neighborhood, this modern home provides unparalleled style, function and jaw-dropping views of the Austin skyline. Situated on a double lot, the house boasts walls of windows that capture the simply spectacular views, while maintaining the ultimate in privacy. The gourmet kitchen is perfect for a chef, while the master is a dramatic glass jewel box with walls of electric shaded windows. Other upper level rooms are also complete with their own private balcony, viewing either the city or bird sanctuary. Multiple decks are found throughout the home, perfect for al fresco entertaining. The home is finished with a pool and spa.
LISA SEXTON & SUSAN DOYLE
BROKER ASSOCIATE // GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISOR 512.751.7321 // 512.658.8229 lisa.sexton@sothebysrealty.com // susan.doyle@sothebysrealty.com lisasexton.kuperrealty.com // susandoyle.kuperrealty.com
WHERE TO EAT RIGHT NOW: 3 NEIGHBORHOOD GEMS CHANGING HOW AUSTIN DINES OUT O R I G I N A L L Y S E E N O N C U L T U R E M A P. C O M
PHOTO BY WYNN MYERS
By Brandon Watson The signs are everywhere. The bar that serves Tyson Cole and Aaron Franklin’s Loro has a steady line. Kevin Fink can just as often be seen behind the counter at Fareground’s Henbit as his acclaimed Emmer & Rye. Barley Swine’s Bryce Gilmore is keeping it casual with his newly opened Sour Duck Market. And Olamaie’s Michael Fojtasek is set to do the same at the upcoming St. Elmo Public Market. The reign of upscale New American restaurants is over. Long live haute fast casual. The sea change was inevitable. Austin’s rising costs, including astronomical commercial rent, have made ambitious projects riskier than ever. Retaining a knowledgeable front-of-house has become a blood sport as tip-hungry servers move from hot spot to hot spot trying to keep on top of their own astronomical costs of living. At the same time, stretched-thin Austinites don’t always have the time or resources to sit down for a languid $100-plus meal. Still, the town’s culinary explosion has brought about increasingly sophisticated tastes. This new generation of hip counter service restaurants is a way for Austin’s hip dining public to have their cake and eat it, too.
SALA & BETTY
If you are going to talk about the current move towards haute fast casual, you have to go back to where it started. In Austin, that was Sala & Betty, former Aquarelle chef Teresa Wilson’s quiet neighborhood charmer on Airport Boulevard. When it first opened, it felt like Wilson was trying to do too many things. Breakfast and lunch were both served from a counter, dinner switched over to a sit-down affair, and a drive-thru window served a separate to-go menu. It all seemed like a newfangled Boston Market. As it turns out, we shouldn’t have doubted her for one second.
restaurant in Instagram modernism. (Of course there’s a minimal neon sign. How else to draw in the firefly swarms of influencers?) Hank’s follows much the same format as Sala — right down to the drivethru — and on the surface level, the menu is much the same. Sandwiches are again the starting point, with crowd pleasing offerings like turkey and gruyere on sourdough, brie and prosciutto on a baguette, and a velvety grilled cheese made with nutty Dutch Parrano. Fans of Henri’s, the owners’ former restaurant devastated in a 2016 fire, will be happy to know that Hank’s also offers a damn fine cheeseburger — still made with razor sharp cheddar, but now substituting a more genteel dijonnaise for the original’s brutish whole grain mustard. Where the Windsor Park restaurant diverges from its Airport counterpoint is in its embrace of trend foods. They are all there, including a quinoa bowl with trout and avocado, charred vegetables, sweet Brussels sprouts, and avocado toast, natch. The differences between Sala & Betty and Hank’s no doubt have to do with the preferences of their owners, but also make sense for the neighborhoods. The Hyde Park/North Loop neighborhoods that Wilson serves are relatively established with long-time homeowners. With relatively affordable prices, Windsor Park has attracted a plugged-in crowd of young professionals with young families.
40 NORTH
Austin’s new dining direction all comes together at Clint Elmore’s brick-andmortar version of his popular pizza trailer, which sits on a strip of Lamar Boulevard equally accessible to both the tony citizens of Clarksville and on-the-go downtowners. Eating the menu, one gets a sense that Elmore cooks what he likes to eat. The offerings nod to the cool kids of global gastronomy (charred asparagus, labneh, za’atar), but it never reads like it was culled from a trend report.
Wilson has always been a little ahead of her time. For 11 years, Aquarelle excelled in the sort of locally sourced, carefully plated food at a time when many local diners were just as happy eating slabs of chicken-fried steak. Sala proved that thoughtful food could be served in a new context.
This is Neapolitan pizza, not exactly a new concept for Austin. But where 40 North forecasts the future is in the way it is served. Where leading lights Backspace and the two Bufalinas have intimate dining rooms geared to date nights and birthday dinners, 40 North is geared towards everyday meals.
At Sala, Wilson kept some of the French leanings of Aquarelle, but adapted them to a far more approachable format. Sandwiches and burgers anchor the menu, supplemented with comfort items like meatloaf with smoked tomato potatoes, fried fontina cheese sticks, and succulent roasted pork shoulder by the pound.
A central kiosk is divided on two sides to handle separate to-go and dinein orders, keeping the flow going on school nights. Like Hank’s, the entire space has been washed with white, keeping those cameras clicking. It beats me what graphic Scandinavian Beastie Boys posters have to do with pizza, but they sure look nice in the background of a portrait mode shot.
The showpiece is the Mister T, a dense bolillo stuffed with smoked Wagyu sirloin, thick french fries, and mixed greens and slathered with avocado aioli and bleu cheese sauce. Made with organic ingredients and familiarly rich flavors, it’s equally at home paired with a beer as an Oregon Pinot. The high-low balance couldn’t be any more indicative of how Austin wants to eat today.
More importantly, dining quickly at 40 North doesn’t feel like a compromise. Lusciously fatty house porchetta is tempered with onion jam in a sandwich; a simple bread pudding has a brandy anglaise; and the blistered pizzas are topped with unexpected ingredients like wild boar sopressata, dandelion greens, and shiitake mushrooms. The Hot Honey, a holdover from the trailer, still sings — oh, and the prices won’t drain your debit card.
HANK’S
Like Sala & Betty and Hank’s, the restaurant is designed around the way Austinites actually live, putting people before concept. It may be a gentle revolution, but it’s been a long time coming.
If Sala & Betty was the prototype, Hank’s is the shiny new model. Instead of adopting Wilson’s Provençal flair, owners Andy Means and Jessie Katz hired Ben May Design and Claire Zinnecker Design to outfit the neighborhood
F O R M O R E A U S T I N S T O R I E S L I K E T H I S , V I S I T A U S T I N . C U L T U R E M A P. C O M
4003 CHAMISA DRIVE
9 BEDS // 9 FULL & 4 HALF BATHS // 15,455 SF // PRICE UPON REQUEST EXQUISITE PRIVATE RETREAT Unrivaled European-style retreat nestled minutes from Lake Austin. Phenomenal finishes include 275-year-old exquisite mantle imported from chateaux in France and custom-crafted Habersham cabinets. Gourmet chef’s kitchen, adjacent prep kitchen, and climate controlled wine room. Enjoy eight expansive, uniquely comfortable entertaining spaces including fully-equipped theater. Relish in the entertaining room or ride the elevator to the third-floor recreational haven - each with full wet bar. Two attached guest casitas and private guest accommodations. Outdoor entertaining space including pool, spa and covered porches allow for effortless flow from the inside.
KACY DOLCE
MARU VILOLANTE
512.426.1865 kacy.dolce@sothebysrealty.com kacydolce.kuperrealty.com
512.971.3797 maru.violante@sothebysrealty.com maruviolante.kuperrealty.com
BROKER ASSOCIATE
REALTORÂŽ
DIVE RIGHT INTO THE BEST SWIMMING HOLES AROUND CENTRAL TEXAS O R I G I N A L L Y S E E N O N C U L T U R E M A P. C O M
PHOTO BY BRIAN P. BARNES
By Mark Henricks Summers in Texas can be intolerable, which is why knowing where to find the best swimming holes is indispensable. Next time you travel to Central Texas for a few hot and steamy days, keep in mind that the area offers up a bounty of watery beauty. Here are a dozen of the best swimming holes to cool off and feel refreshed. BARTON SPRINGS POOL - The grand dame of Austin swimming holes, and arguably
America’s best urban bathing spot, Barton Springs features famously brisk water temperatures of around 68-70 degrees. Whether you’re into swimming laps, busting showy moves off the diving board, or just sunning on the grassy banks, Barton Springs is absolutely not to be missed. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: No coolers, food, alcohol, or glass bottles allowed. 2201 Barton Springs Rd., Austin. The pool is open daily year-round.
DEEP EDDY POOL - The yin to Barton Springs’ yang and the oldest swimming pool
LAKE PFLUGERVILLE PARK - This 180-acre reservoir on the northeast side offers
fishing piers, kayak rentals, and a launch ramp for non-motorized boats, but the main attraction for swimmers is the pocket-sized sandy beach. Bathers and sun worshippers of all ages spread blankets and picnic at the covered tables year-round. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Shade is in short supply, so consider bringing a pop-up or beach umbrella. 18216 Weiss Ln., Pflugerville.
MANSFIELD DAM PARK - Scuba divers are common sights in this deep cove on Lake
in the state, Deep Eddy is a concrete-bottomed pool on the opposite bank of Lady Bird Lake. Open year-round, it’s popular with lap swimmers, sunbathers, and families. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: The pool is refilled every other day with fresh well water and is not chlorinated, so you can dispense the goggles. 401 Deep Eddy Dr., Austin.
Travis near Mansfield Dam. The Lower Colorado River Authority has installed stairs, a wheelchair ramp, and even lifts to ease divers’ transition into the lake’s clear waters. There’s lots more to do, including sunbathing on the rocky shores, fishing, floating, and barbecuing. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: If you plan to come here often, consider an annual permit. 4370 Mansfield Dam Park Rd., Austin.
HAMILTON POOL PRESERVE - Hamilton Pool looks like a movie set, with a waterfall
BLUE HOLE — GEORGETOWN - On the south fork of the San Gabriel River in downtown
spilling off the huge half-dome into a circular pool ringed by boulders and a perfect beach on one side. Reservation and entry fees make this a relatively pricey outing, and swimming is sometimes prohibited due to high bacteria counts, but the canyon’s natural beauty makes all worthwhile. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Reservations are required. Make your reservation online and pay $11 before going. 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd., Dripping Springs.
CAMPBELL’S HOLE - The seven miles of Barton Creek flowing through the greenbelt
Georgetown, dammed waters create a scenic lagoon bordered by limestone bluffs on one side and grassy shores on the other. Climbing or diving from the cliffs is forbidden (no matter how many people you see doing it). KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Park for free in a public lot and garage at Third and Rock streets. 100 Blue Hole Park, Georgetown.
BLUE HOLE — WIMBERLEY - Rope swings; towering cypress trees; and the cool, shaded
features several worthy swimming holes, including Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls. For ease of access, however, Campbell’s Hole tops the list. Entering from Spyglass Drive off MoPac, it’s a short hike to this pool just a mile upstream from Barton Springs. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Water level may be too low to swim much during dry spells. 1601 Spyglass Dr., Austin.
waters of Cypress Creek characterize this gem stashed in the center of the village of Wimberley. The swimming hole is open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day, weekends in May and September, and closed the rest of the year. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Swimmers are encouraged to make reservations online for one of two time slots: 9 am-1 pm or 2-6 pm. 100 Blue Hole Ln., Wimberley.
RIO VISTA PARK - The San Marcos equivalent of Barton Springs Pool is this park
KRAUSE SPRINGS - Krause Springs is the only privately owned swimming hole
HIPPIE HOLLOW - “Clothing optional” is the key phrase forever associated with
JACOB’S WELL - Limpid 68-degree water from the Trinity Aquifer wells up to fill
featuring a chute funneling the cool, crystalline waters of the San Marcos River into man-made rapids for tubers, kayakers, and surfers. You can rent tubes, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards; picnic, barbecue; and even shoot baskets or play tennis. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Rio Vista can get crowded, so don’t expect to show up late and get a primo spot. 555 Cheatham St., San Marcos. this Lower Colorado River Authority park on Lake Travis. It’s famously the state’s only clothing-optional park and is restricted to swimmers 18-and-up only. Rules forbid photographs, dogs, and lewd behavior. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Rangers close the park when it becomes too crowded, so arrive early on holiday weekends. 7000 Comanche Tr., Austin.
on this list and the only one that allows camping. Dozens of springs fill both manmade and natural pools flowing into Lake Travis and the waterfalls, grottos, and abundant vegetation combine to make for breathtaking beauty. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: The Krause family does not accept credit cards, so bring cash. 404 Krause Spring Rd., Spicewood.
this 140-foot-deep cavern and form Cypress Creek. In order to swim, you must have a reservation for a specific two-hour slot to guarantee your spot in the water. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: There is no public drinking fountain. Bring water but not strollers. The 15-minute hike in has multiple sets of stairs. 221 Wood Acre Dr., Wimberley.
FOR M OR E AUST I N STORI ES LI KE T HI S, VI SI T AUST I N.CULT UREMAP.C O M
200 CONGRESS AVENUE #35E
2 BEDS // 2 FULL BATHS // 1,918 SF // PRICE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST DOWNTOWN LUXURY WITH STUNNING VIEWS This luxurious residence in the premier downtown building – the Austonian – exudes elegance and luxury at every turn. Venetian Plaster and porcelain marble floors in the living room are perfectly complemented by crystal chandeliers. Waterworks fixtures and Carrara marble adorn the baths. ALL of the views available in Austin can be seen from your living room in this 35th floor residence. Amazing views of the Texas Capitol, Ladybird Lake, the Frost Bank Tower, the UT Tower and panoramic hill country and city views abound. First-class amenities include a private movie theatre, 55th floor fitness room, spacious resident’s living room and conference room, library, valet parking and 24-hour concierge.
MELISSA MEEKS KILIAN BROKER ASSOCIATE
512.217.2020 melissa.kilian@sothebysrealty.com melissakilian.kuperrealty.com
8309 LAKEWOOD RIDGE CV
4 BEDS // 4 FUL L & 1 H A L F BAT H S // 4, 3 0 0 S F // J UST L I ST E D AT $ 1 ,59 5,0 0 0
CREEKS EDGE
CONTEMPORARY SOPHISTICATION Located on an approximately 1.06-acre cul-de-sac lot, this gorgeous new contemporary home by Integrity Builders is the epitome of high-end sophistication. Simple clean lines accent this 4 bedroom, 4-1/2 bathroom residence that also includes a spacious study and large game/media room. “Wet Edge pool and spa” create the focal point for the open-air living areas. Floor to ceiling expansive sliders lead to the outdoor kitchen and entertaining areas that are designed perfectly for function and leisure. The amenity-rich community of Belvedere includes a lazy river pool, two stocked fishing ponds, and an 80-acre nature reserve. Lake Travis ISD schools.
P R I C E A N D O PT IO N S AVA IL A B L E U P O N REQ U EST PRIVATE NEW DEVELOPMENT, LOTS WITH EXPANSIVE VIEWS Reserve your 1+ acre lot NOW in the brand new community of Creeks Edge. Located just off of Highway 71 and Hamilton Pool Road, this gated boutique neighborhood offers 2.02% tax rate, city water and utilities already available, and beautiful stately trees on each lot. Minimal HOA restrictions and fees. Build your own dream home in this one-of-a-kind spectacular hideaway. Exemplary Lake Travis ISD schools, close to the Hill Country Galleria, services, and exceptional outdoor activities. Call for a personal tour and additional information.
JANA BIRDWELL
GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISOR 512.784.8600 jana.birdwell@sothebysrealty.com jana.birdwell.kuperrealty.com
6 HIDDEN AUSTIN POCKET PARKS AND SECRET GREENBELTS TO DISCOVER O R I G I N A L L Y S E E N O N C U L T U R E M A P. C O M
RICHARD MOYA PARK 10001 Burleson Rd. Highlights of this 100-acre county park include sizable pecan and oak trees, shady picnic table and grills, and Onion Creek beneath Moore’s Crossing Bridge. Its metal spans came from a bridge installed across the Colorado River at Congress Avenue in 1884 and dismantled in 1910. See all this on a two-mile, paved hike (or walk) and bike trail.
SHIPE NEIGHBORHOOD PARK PHOTO BY LONESTARMIKE
By Melissa Gaskill A walk in the park. The expression means something easy to do, even pleasant. And no wonder — who doesn’t like spending time in a park? Austin has a plethora of them, from city pocket parks to our crown jewel, Zilker Park, to far-flung county greenbelts and Lower Colorado River Authority properties. Here are a few lesser known places to enjoy that walk, along with a host of other pleasant pursuits.
4400 Avenue G Named for Monroe Martin Shipe, an early promoter of the park’s Hyde Park neighborhood, this gem is one of the city’s oldest parks. Shipe features a swimming pool with a colorful mosaic mural, a wading pool, playground, basketball and tennis courts, and open grassy areas perfect for lazing away summer evenings. A log cabin-style shelter house built in 1929 to host recreational activities still stands, and warm weather reveals the genius of its breezeway design. The Elisabet Ney Museum is next door.
SOUTHEAST METROPOLITAN PARK
JESSICA HOLLIS PARK
14100 Low Water Crossing Rd. Located on the far north shore of Lake Austin, this 62-acre LCRA park is ideal for picnicking, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Expect the water to be brisk; you’re just below Mansfield Dam, meaning said water comes from the bottom of Lake Travis. Parking is $1 per hour.
MAYFIELD PARK AND PRESERVE
3505 W. 35th St. These 23 acres contain a complex of shallow ponds and gardens nestled around a restored cottage, originally purchased by the Mayfield family in 1909 as a summer home. The family had peacocks, and the descendants of those birds still roam the park. A network of trails explores the surrounding woods, some leading to the shores of Lake Austin. No pets allowed.
4511 Hwy. 71 East, Del Valle This Travis County park hides a walk to remember, the three-mile Primitive Trail loop through wooded hills, across wildflower meadows, past fishing ponds, and into rocky gullies. Except for occasional glimpses of the Austin skyline, you’ll never guess downtown lies mere miles away. Catch-and-release fishing allowed in the ponds; look for wildlife and birds along the trail. Dogs allowed on leash.
MCKINNEY ROUGHS NATURE PARK
1884 Hwy. 71 West, Cedar Creek, Texas This 140-acre LCRA park, on Highway 71 just 13 miles east of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, has roughly 20 miles of multiuse trails to enjoy by horse, bike, or foot, with routes featuring wooded hills, open meadows, and Colorado River front. The park also offers guided outdoor and water recreation activities, including a zip line course. $5 entrance fee (12 and under free). F O R M O R E A U S T I N S T O R I E S L I K E T H I S , V I S I T A U S T I N . C U L T U R E M A P. C O M
101 DAWN RIVER COVE
4 BEDS // 5 FULL & 1 HALF BATHS // 5,555 SF // $1,649,000 CLASSIC, CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE Ivory cut stone walls on both sides of the entry herald the solid design of a home where structural elements rendered in soft tones deliver the message that strength and simplicity are an art form second to none. Across from the entry doors is a large expanse of glass looking out to the rectangular pool. The dining, living, and kitchen are the heart and soul of the design inspiration, spilling into each other with deliberation and spatial brilliance. Backing to a green space, the private setting finishes out the perfect combination of clean lines and large, but intimate spaces.
SUSAN GRIFFITH
GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISOR 512.626.4102 susan.griffith@sothebysrealty.com susangriffith.kuperrealty.com
FEATURED EVENTS A L A M O D R A F T H O U S E P R E S E N T S J A W S O N T H E W A T E R // J U L Y 1 3 , 1 4 , 2 0 , 2 1 , 2 7 , & 2 8
The infamous Jaws On The Water hits the sandy shores for a monthlong run of weekend “dive-in” shows. Tickets to these On the Water shows include full access to Volente Beach attractions, an all-new shark-approved inner tube with headrest and cupholder, fireworks display (on select nights), and the thrilling, one-of-a-kind experience of watching cinema’s greatest great whites with the chance to be a floating shark snack for a squad of scuba divers to scare.
T H I R T Y S E C O N D S T O M A R S I N C O N C E R T // J U L Y 7
Thirty Seconds to Mars will come to Austin in support of their upcoming fifth album. Fans can expect live performances of songs from the new album and fan favorites, including “City of Angels” and “Up in the Air.”
B O Y G E O R G E A N D C U L T U R E C L U B I N C O N C E R T // J U L Y 1 0
Grammy Award-winning legends Boy George and Culture Club will be in Austin as part of their “The Life Tour.” They’ll be joined by special guest Tom Bailey of the Thompson Twins.
J A N E T J A C K S O N I N C O N C E R T // J U L Y 1 1
Janet Jackson comes back to Austin as part of her State of the World tour. Jackson has released 11 albums in her career, including 2015’s Unbreakable.
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Float Fest is an annual two-day music festival that takes place in and around the San Marcos River, allowing audience members to float in tubes while watching performances. Performers at the 2018 edition will include Tame Impala, Bassnectar, Snoop Dogg, Modest Mouse, Run the Jewels, Glass Animals, Lil Wayne, Toadies, and more.
C O U N T I N G C R O W S I N C O N C E R T W I T H L I V E // J U L Y 2 1
Counting Crows comes to Austinas part of their 25 Years and Counting tour. They’ll be joined by opening act, Live.
S A M S M I T H I N C O N C E R T // J U L Y 2 1
Sam Smith comes back to Austin in support of his new album, The Thrill of It All.
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Daryl Hall & John Oates and Train will co-headline this concert as part of their North American summer tour. Hall & Oates have released 18 albums in their career, while Train is touring in support of their 2017 album, A Girl, a Bottle, a Boat.
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The Long Center for the Performing Arts will present the Austin premiere of National Geographic: Symphony for Our World. Combining stunning National Geographic natural history footage with a live performance of the theme by the Austin Symphony Orchestra. This inspiring 90-minute performance will feature groundbreaking imagery and storytelling from 130 years of beloved National Geographic history matched in perfect synchronization with a live orchestra and choir for each engagement.
I M A G I N E D R A G O N S I N C O N C E R T W I T H G R A C E V A N D E R W A A L // A U G U S T 2
Imagine Dragons comes to Austin in support of their 2017 album, Evolve. They’ll be joined by America’s Got Talent winner, Grace VanderWaal. FOR M ORE AUST I N EVENTS LI KE T HESE, VI SI T AUST I N.CULT UREMAP.COM/ EV EN TS
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