Palazzo Lavaca

PALAZZO LAVACA

AUSTIN, TEXAS

THE DETAILS

BEDS

3 BATHS

3.4

SQ. FT. 6,780 ACRE

0.12

1614 LAVACA STREET | AUSTIN, TX 78701

With over a century of Austin’s history captured in its walls, this one-of-a-kind building is not just a home but a destination in itself. Originally built in 1890 as a firehouse, T.C. “Buck” Steiner converted it into the famous Capitol Saddlery in the 1940s where legendary boot maker, Charles Dunn, took up shop, fashioning cowboy boots for the likes of Arnold Palmer and Al Capone. Transformed in 2008 from a saddlery to the stunning event space and residence Palazzo Lavaca, this home unites rustic charm with Old World splendor. Immaculately curated with 18th century antiques, Italian chandeliers, and Fortuny Paper wallpaper and velvets, the beautiful interiors beg to be savored. A spectacular gold leafed ballroom transports its occupants into an otherworldly fantasy, while the beautiful open-air courtyard showcases the remaining artifacts of the saddlery’s operations. Uniquely situated to function as a desirable venue, or as a luxury three bedroom with exquisite open living spaces and media areas, Palazzo Lavaca will enchant you and make you feel as if you are living in a work of art.

EXPLORE MORE: 1614LAVACA.COM

THE HISTORY

The structure that currently stands at 1614 Lavaca Street was built in 1890 as one of the city’s first permanent firehouses for Protection Hook and Ladder Company No. 3. However, it was actually the second fire department built at this location – the first was built in 1878 and was ironically set ablaze by an arsonist while fire fighters were out responding to a call. After its reconstruction, the department operated until 1932 and then vacated the property.

In the 1940’s, a well-known rodeo cowboy-turned-ranch developer named T.C. “Buck” Steiner (the namesake of Steiner Ranch and the subsequent housing development by the same title) purchased the empty building and turned it into the Capitol Saddlery. The Capitol Saddlery has spent the last seven decades providing saddles, boots, and leather goods for Montgomery Ward, Sears, and other distinguished clientele. During its early heyday, the saddlery employed over 100 people, one of whom was the legendary bootmaker named Charlie Dunn. In the 25 years of practicing his craft at Capitol Saddlery, Dunn became known as the “Michelangelo of cowboy boots” and fashioned boots for celebrities like Arnold Palmer, Al Capone, Gene Autry, Slim Pickens, and Carole King. In fact, Dunn grew to be so famous that country artist Jerry Jeff Walker wrote a song about him, ultimately leading to even greater success for Dunn’s and Steiner’s shop. Though Capitol Saddlery relocated in 2007, the unique “boot” sign is still an iconic part of the building’s façade, and observant visitors might notice the “1878” insignia from its original firehouse days.

FIRST FLOOR SECOND FLOOR

3,390± SF

3,390± SF

THE LOCATION