This signature project from MakingModernHome is the epitome of timeless design integrated into its charming Cherrywood neighborhood streetscape. French Provincial meets Texas Tudor by combining Bayou brick with classic forms. Inside, every fixture and finish was considered to create a legacy home.
Project Development and Design (including landscape, exterior detailing and interiors) by MakingModernHomeLLC. Listed by (me) Dana Ambs with MODUS ATX. General Contractor: L&L Homes. Platform Staging. JHArchitecture. Jeff Wilson Photography and DH Real Estate Media. Completed 2024 and sold Off-Market.
For Sale. More Images and information coming soon. Listing Link for 3104 Lafayette Ave #2.
Contact me for more information. Completed 2023. Design and Development by MakingModernHome LLC with ATX Development and Design LLC. Pavonetti Architecture. Platform Staging. DH Real Estate Media. Listed by Dana Ambs (me) with MODUS Real Estate.
Making Modern Home is pleased to present our latest spec project that's a true original blending classic 1920's Tudor design with contemporary luxury. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a sunlit, legacy residence that features historic charm, privacy even in an urban setting, livability with the warm, subdued finish out, and character beyond what many other Austin new builds offer. Common to homes of the 20's - a motif was used. In this case, the quatrefoil motif or variation appears in all the railings, the pool tile and in the attic bathroom. The vaulted living room (a rare feature in Austin's challenging former zoning code to include) opening to the pool make this a dream home! More projects, listings and designs to come!
Design: MakingModernHome - Owner: DMJ City Homes LLC, Architecture: JH Architecture Construction: Co-Sci Construction. Staging by Platform. Photos by Jeff Wilson Photo and Frankstone Media. Completed 2024. Listed with MODUS ATX - Realtor Dana Ambs. Listing link here:
Presenting the “Southern Tudor” by Making Modern Home LLC and ATX Development LLC located in the heart of the vibrant, walkable Chestnut neighborhood! This exquisite new construction blends timeless charm with curated finishes and fixtures. A stunning exterior with copper accents, charming awnings, smooth stucco and classic front porch welcomes you to this spacious 2,349 sqft home offering character, open spaces and sunlight. The floorplan generously incorporates a main floor primary suite and spectacular greatroom, open kitchen and elegant dining room all surrounding a thoughtful courtyard serving as the heart of the home. From the gracious foyer with classical proportions, note the stunning office and moody powder room with bold cement tile before stepping into the breathtaking living area. Blending warm, natural textures, the natural white zelliege tile and oak wood floors compliment the cool tones of the portonari marble and slate stained cabinetry. Custom metal work graces the staircase and landing which features a skylit peek-a-boo from first floor to second. Upstairs, adjoining a loft-like second living area, one delightful bedroom offers a whimsical reading or play nook while the other offers an ensuite bathroom and generous walk-in closet. With level 4 drywall finish, foam insulation, custom cedar garage door, SDL windows, solid core doors, upgraded wood trim, fully fenced and landscaped spaces, finished attic storage, and a 1/2/10 Builder warranty, no expense was spared, no detailed was overlooked to bring this legacy East Austin home to market. Referencing the one hundred year old homes from the 1920s & 30s, we present to you The Southern Tudor, poised to grace Austin’s urban infill landscape for centuries to come. Enjoy walking daily to local favorites Juiceland, Sour Duck, Bennu, The Wheel, UTexas and 12th street entertainment and see how refreshing infill development can be! Check out video & 3D Tour!
Design: MakingModernHome Listed by: Dana Ambs, Realtor with MODUS Real Estate ATX Photos: DH Realestate Media Staging: Platform Staging Builder: ATX Development LLC Architect: Envision Custom Homes Completed: 2024
More info coming soon. Just completed 2024. To be listed July.
Why settle for "sameness" when you can embrace the wonderful, whimsical, and sophisticated? This legacy home was envisioned by Making Modern Home LLC (agent's company and ownership interest) and crafted by ATX Development LLC for your modern East Austin lifestyle. Referencing the inviting and classic Tudor style of the 1920's, this awe-inspiring home is approachable yet luxurious. From the quiet Govalle neighborhood street, the thoughtful exterior with its swoop roof, Juliette balcony, handmade tile, and arch door welcomes you. Step inside to the breathtaking great room with beamed 10' ceilings, linear gas fireplace, hand-burnished plaster finishes, window seat, abundant natural light, and access to a private patio and yard through gracious french doors. A stunning dining room is perfect for entertaining. No expense was spared in the luxurious chef's kitchen complete with Bosch industrial appliances (36" pro gas range!), custom white oak cabinetry, Negresco leathered marble island and the handmade zellige tile backsplash! An elegant powder room and full laundry room (each with a window) prove that every detail and space was intentional. A beautifully crafted metal railing and delightful landing lead you upstairs. Each bedroom has character and soaring ceilings, but the oversized primary bedroom is a real show stopper with its dramatic cedar beams, french doors to the balcony, and charming nooks. The suite's bathroom and closet are as timeless as they are practical with honed stone walls and floors, white oak cabinets/built-ins, and a triple-leveled custom closet. Stepping outside, you will note the solid cedar/metal fence enveloping the intimate and tranquil yard ready for your BBQ and cowboy pool. A 220V outlet is provided in the garage. A 1/2/10 structural warranty will be offered.
Listing link here: https://www.compass.com/app/listing/741-cherico-street-unit-1-austin-tx-78702/1106112521765595177
Completed 2022 | Design & Development: Dana Ambs, Making Modern Home LLC | Photos: TwistTours and Jeff Wilson Photo | Builder Partner: ATX Development LLC | Architecture: William Hodge | Staging: Elite Austin | Listed by: Me, Dana Ambs with COMPASS RE TEXAS LLC
Just Listed and Completed 2024. Listing Link. 4606 Gonzales St Unit 1 Austin TX 78702
Project Designer: Dana Ambs, Making Modern Home LLC
Owner: DMJ Development LLC
Architect: JHArchitecture
Builder: Co-Sci Construction LLC
Staging: Platform Staging Photos: DH Real Estate Media.
You will love this right-sized "Spanish Revival" full stucco home with design direction from Making Modern Home LLC. This 1942 home was fully reimagined and expanded in 2021/2022 to include three spacious bedrooms, two luxuriously appointed bathrooms, and a RARE TWO CAR GARAGE! So much natural light, so much character, so much to walk to, so many special moments in this house you will want to call home. All new mechanicals: high-efficiency variable, high seer HVAC system, all new electrical service and wiring, all new plumbing and sewer, all foam insulation — hidden behind new level 4 smooth drywall. Engineered, permitted, and inspected this remodel has all new windows, stucco, and roof shingles. Enjoy custom features such as the thoughtful arches, beamed vaulted ceilings, white oak cabinets, breeze block accents, and extensive landscape & fencing. The kitchen includes leathered quartz counters, premium Bosch appliances including a 36" industrial range, and generous built-in space. The backyard with a large deck is serene and accessed from the primary suite, the kitchen hallway, or the 3rd bedroom/office. The generous walk-in closet, dramatic ensuite bathroom, and beamed ceilings make the primary bedroom as functional as it is beautiful (not to mention you can fit a king size bed!). In the heart of the vibrant and neighborly Govalle, you can walk or bike to so many lively hotspots such as breweries, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants, while being steps from the South Walnut Creek Hike and Bike trailhead - truly this is one of the best locations in East Austin! This home is a detached site condo that shares a lot with the ADU (accessory dwelling unit) sold separately at 4811 Bolm. The HOA dues are $0. The team of Making Modern Home, JH Architecture and Co-Sci Construction designed and built the 2 units to be separate in style and in function so that each home lives like a single-family home.
This INCREDIBLE Storybook Tudor style home envisioned and designed by Making Modern Home LLC (agent's company and ownership interest) and built with quality by ATX Development LLC is like no other ADU on the vibrant East Side! Reminiscent of the romantic styles of 1920's/30's architecture, but brought to life for a modern buyer, this jewel box of a home beckons you to enter its gracious porch overlooking a lush, elm-shaded courtyard. Upon walking through the custom arched door, prepare to be amazed by the voluminous great room with soaring ceilings and copious natural light streaming in from the french doors, transoms, and arched windows. Combining the best of old-world charm and modern sophistication, the chef's kitchen showcases the juxtaposition of handmade zellige tile, honed granite, custom cabinets, warm cedar beams, with industrial Bosch appliances (36" Gas range!), diamond polished concrete floors and sleek fixtures. The dramatic marble guest bathroom and vaulted bedroom with 4 walls of glass and doors leading to the courtyard and the backyard (not pictured) round out the stunning lower level. But there's more to explore in this whimsical cottage. Heading upstairs, past the custom metal railing, enter the spacious primary suite with room for a king bed. There are 2 walk-in closets - one being a walk-through dressing room (customizable) that can double as an office nook. A charming bathroom includes practical medicine cabinets and built-ins. Other notable features include the use of high-end Level 4 drywall, 220V plug in the garage, simulated divided light doors & windows, robust cedar/metal curved fence, and an insurance backed 1/2/10 Structural warranty for peace of mind. Enjoy your peaceful Govalle neighborhood street while being just steps from East Austin favorites like Kinda Tropical, Central Machine Works, and the Walnut Creek Trailhead.
This ADU was envisioned over 2 years ago, so we are excited to share details of this special property!
Listing link here: https://www.compass.com/app/listing/741-cherico-street-unit-2-austin-tx-78702/1105992422307739065
Completed 2022 | Design & Development: Dana Ambs, Making Modern Home LLC | Photos: TwistTours and Jeff Wilson Photo | Builder Partner: ATX Development LLC | Architecture: William Hodge | Staging: Elite Austin | Listed by: Me, Dana Ambs with COMPASS RE TEXAS LLC
Completed 2023. Design Direction by MakingModernHome. Architecture: Pavonetti, Builder: ATXDevelopment LLC Stager: Platform Staging, Photographer: DHRealEstateMedia, Listing Broker: MODUS Atx - Dana Ambs
Making Modern Home LLC just finished up this North Loop new build with Co-Sci Construction LLC and JHArchitecture and now it’s for sale! Take a look: https://www.compass.com/app/listing/5303-avenue-g-unit-1-austin-tx-78751/1161797278405934233
Making Modern Home was hired to consult on the design and vision of reimagining this 1910 Folk Victorian - actually the oldest home we have redesigned so far! Before, this East Austin Chestnut neighborhood home was in dire shape and most developers would have torn it down, but we saw potential and saved the shell. Sadly, there was no real original character to save, so we had to fabricate it. Impressively, the investor actually hand crafted each of the scallop shingles at the front gable, and he didn’t even bat an eye when I specified a historic pink color - Sherwin Williams Rose Brocade. Inside, since stain quality wood trim throughout (like would have been installed in 1910), was cost prohibitive, we opted to add warmth throughout by selecting wood french doors with a natural stain, adding wood beams in the kitchen and dining room, designing a custom copper range hood, and by installing brick accents. As the listing agent, I am excited to present this home for sale! Listing link here
Completed 2023. Project Design (Interior, exterior, and landscape): Making Modern Home LLC - Dana Ambs. Listed by: Dana Ambs - COMPASS. Expert Staging: Platform Staging. Photos: TwistTours. General Contractor: LandLRealEstate. Developer: Austin787 Properties LLC. Handcrafted Scallop Shingle siding maker: Buddy Henderson (thank you - best part!)
MORE INFO COMING SOON. Listing Link.
For sale. Contact me for more info. Project description coming soon.
More information coming soon. Listing Link Here.
More Information coming soon! Just completed 2023.
Completed 2023, this innovative East Austin ADU was designed to be striking and perched above its urban alley location. More information coming soon. Available for sale.
FOR SALE - Project Design and Development by Making Modern Home 2023 with JHArchitecture and Co-Sci Construction LLC. Photos by TwistTours. Staging by Elite Austin with Making Modern Home. Listed by me - Dana Ambs with COMPASS RE TEXAS LLC. More info coming soon.
Exciting warm, modern, new construction 2/2 ADU with an additional 168 SqFt flex space/screen porch perched above the vibrant Govalle neighborhood from the experienced team of Making Modern Home LLC (agent's company), JHArchitecture, and Co-Sci Construction. Compare and see, it's rare to find an ADU with this many features: floating steel staircase, furniture grade walnut cabinetry, honed stone countertops, Clay Imports authentic Spanish tile, premium Marvin windows, level 4 smooth drywall, high-efficiency variable speed, 18 seer HVAC with full foam insulation. The thoughtful floor plan packs in an island kitchen, dining room, living room with 11' ceilings, and a primary suite that accommodates a king bed and offers a generous closet and bathroom. The outside is enclosed by a custom fence with a metal gate and the parking is behind a rolling power gate. Located just steps from local bustling hotspots - Austin Bouldering Project, EastCiders, Canopy art studios, local art galleries, cafes, and boutiques, while being close to nature such as the hike and bike trails at the South Walnut Creek Trailhead. This is the urban, warm modern home you have been waiting for in East Austin! Enjoy the view from your screen porch/flex space and soak in the East Side.
Like this property? We have more like it coming soon.
Making Modern Home LLC worked with JH Architecture and Co-Sci Construction to bring you this handsome, practical ADU Alley Home in the heart of walkable North Loop. Though this home is compact, it offers big features like a walk-in pantry, walk-in primary closet, custom island kitchen, garage and a charming screen porch. Too often, in Austin’s charming North Loop neighborhood, the new builds haven’t been worthy of this excellent location or had much character. We hope to change that by bringing a crafted, small home to the market that represents the best of urban infill.
BEFORE PICTURES ARE MIXED IN - they are the boring, white box photos :) This home went from bland and uninspired to soulful and character rich! We added Hardie Shake siding and cedar accents to the exterior. Inside, we add custom lighting, handsome wood beams and curated tile choices to really make this simple house feel like a home. Though we added new paint, trim, doors, and fixtures, we worked with the existing floor plan, kept most of the cabinets and countertops, used the existing wideplank wood floors and tile shower surrounds in order to keep the final price point modest and keep landfill waste to a minimum. Lush landscape and fully gating the yard, makes this home a private oasis in East Austin. For sale - Listed by me for 625K 3beds/2baths/gated parking! https://www.compass.com/app/agent-search/id/383107731994706423
Dana Ambs of Making Modern Home completed this project in November 2021 with ATX Development and Design. The previous owners had already completed an incredible addition and remodel to this one-of-a-kind Govalle gem, but we made a few tweaks and site improvements to accommodate an upcoming ADU. This 1930s bungalow is SOLD now, but we are building Unit 2 right now! Check out the casita as well.
Making Modern Home found this development opportunity project and was thrilled to partner with Co-Sci Construction and JHArchitecture to bring it to life. We started with a standard East Austin lot in the popular Govalle neighborhood and we created a dense program to accommodate 2 homes in 3 buildings on this lot. Since it was a small lot, it was very important to make the most of the exterior spaces and we ended up with several of them!
A reimagined 1940s Bungalow layered in with some California-inspired design — I loved this project. We worked with architect William Hodge to maximize every square inch and Co-Sci Construction did a great job implementing the vision! The best part is the perfect income suite above the detached garage with downtown views and lots of light (we took advantage of an attic exemption code allowance hence the charming rooflines).
-Spacious floor plan with soaring ceilings and generous connection to multiple outdoor spaces.
-Owner's suite has 3 sides of windows, beamed ceiling, access to the deck, a luxuriously appointed master bath, and a large walk-in closet.
-Meticulous renovation: All new foundation piers with warranty, permit, and engineering in 2019. All new siding, sheathing, drywall, trim, foam insulation, windows, plumbing, gas lines, utility taps, electric, hvac and ductwork, roof and decking. Seriously - this is almost a new house - and I can share videos to prove it 🙂
-Premium features such as a standing seam metal roof, custom walnut, and oak cabinetry, Bosch appliances, Pietra gray marble counters, extensive steelwork (porch, fence, awnings, planters), lush landscape, composite decking, Clay Imports tile, electric fireplace, wainscoting, skylights...
-Vibrant, walkable, and charming Chestnut neighborhood.
-Perfect income suite above the garage for an office, guest room, or Airbnb STR.
At Making Modern Home’s own investment, this innovative and thoughtful detached site condo with a 200 SqFt Flex studio has so much more to offer than many other ADUs! Impressive, open living areas, super functional kitchen with Bosch industrial appliances, diamond polished concrete floors, floating structural steel staircase, custom white oak cabinets, large walk-in master closet, built-ins, window seats, welded metal front yard fence, the list goes on and on! But perhaps the most striking feature of this well-planned and finished out home designed by Making Modern Home and JH Architecture, built by Co-Sci Construction, is the detached 200 square foot flex studio that creates a serene courtyard. Contact me for more information on the investment opportunity with projects like these or if you are a buyer looking for East Side property, or if you are a seller looking to sell your home for top dollar! We are thankful to Elite Austin for stellar staging and Kurt at Level Up Photos for perfectly capturing the space.
Staging by: Elite Austin | Construction: Co-Sci | Architect: JH Architecture | Photos: Level Up Photos | Landscape, Interior, and Project Designer: Making Modern Home | Completed 2020
Though we had a handsomely shaped bungalow to begin with, this 1930s bungalow was tired and lowly. It didn’t shine - especially when compared to its neighbors which are located in one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in West Austin - Old Enfield. Making Modern Home directed the remodel of the exterior with a bold blue, black and white paint scheme with copper accents and unique terracotta house numbers from Clay Imports. Inside, to make this home appeal to a more sophisticated buyer, we opted to refinish the hardwood floors with Minwax Classic Gray. We added Saltillo and cement tile (in a saturated color) from Rustico combined with Sherwin Williams Oyster Gray Cabinets, honed granite counters, gold accents, and restored crystal knobs/trim. We were able to add a master bathroom and second closet by stealing some room from the kitchen and by creating a stackable laundry area complete with a real steel and glass door we found for under $400 on homedepot.com!
General Contractor: Co-Sci Construction | Staging: Elite Austin | Photos: TwistTours | Architect: JH Architecture | Completed 2020
Incredible transformation! From frumpy to phenomenal, Making Modern Home transformed this formerly odd 1980s West Austin home into a stunning, sophisticated showplace. Check out before pictures at the bottom. Starting with opening up the kitchen and stairwell (and later adding a custom-designed metal railing), we then reinvented the finish out. The black cabinets and trim in Sherwin Williams Iron Ore combined with the hexagon saltillo tile floors with manganese finish from Rustico tile create a high impact palette. Due to budget restrictions, we weren’t able to completely redo the exterior, but we did find a beautiful steel and glass Durango door! We also designed a simple landscape plan with bold Japanese blueberry trees, had fig ivy planted to grow on the existing stone facade, and stained the wood fence with Behr Slate color. We love the staging that Elite Austin completed to prepare this home to sell.
General Contractor: Co-Sci Construction | Staging: Elite Austin | Photos: TwistTours | Architect: JH Architecture | Completed 2020
-3 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,114 SqFt, 200 Sqft roof deck with views of downtown
-Designed and developed by my company Making Modern Home (owner agent)
-Vibrant Walkable Eastside location
-Detached and situated for maximum privacy. $0 HOA dues
-Vaulted and high ceilings
-Custom walnut cabinets and Clay Imports tile
Modern detached office - Completed 2021!
This ADU packs 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a dining room, an island kitchen, and a spacious master suite with a walk-in closet all in just 881 square feet!
SOLD! Premium 3 story new build on huge lot tucked away from vibrant Tillery street in vibrant East Austin. Though it’s huge by East Austin standards, we paid particular care to not have this home appear bland. Warm walnut custom cabinets, rich textural tile, gorgeous Pietra gray marble countertops, saturated accents, and copious amounts of natural light create an impressive home that feels just right. Generous outdoor space with room for a pool and multiple balconies set this home apart in an East Austin real estate market where very few lots that support a pool exist. The owner’s suite boasts a giant walk-in closet, a dramatic bathroom with a floating tub, and a private balcony. Guest bathrooms are treated to thoughtful tile and hardware. This home could have just been a big boring spec build, but instead Making Modern Home working with Avery Building Company are delighted to present this spacious retreat ready for a new buyer! Contact me for more info and for other similar listings/projects.
Listing Agent: Dana Ambs, Realtor with Compass RE Texas LLC Designer: Making Modern Home LLC | Builder: Avery Building Company | Architect: William Hodge AIA | Stager: Elite Austin | Photos: Twisttours
Striking Mid Century inspired new build by Making Modern Home design, Austin787Properties, HodgeAIA & ATXDevelopment. The detached site condo offers privacy, style & an incredibly practical floor plan. Island kitchen and the dining area opens to the deck and living area (3 TV wall options). Custom kitchen with walnut accents & black stainless appliances. Generous, private yard space with fire pit area & roof deck! On a hip street. 220 plug for EV in the oversized carport. Great staging by Elite Austin and photos by TwistTours.
This extensive, fully permitted Mid Century remodel has a super practical floorplan offering a generous master suite (king!), large walk-in closet, and double sinks. The open concept great room & kitchen has vaulted ceilings, built-ins, and custom white oak accents. This is a Making Modern Home design with Austin787Properties, HodgeAIA & ATXDevelopment project. The remodel has full new plumbing, electrical, drywall, insulation, and roof. Walk to Mueller, Skylark, Contigo, Moontower Cider, Batch, Oddwood Ales. Lovely backyard with deck and a carport! Excellent staging by Elite Austin and photos by TwistTours.
Making Modern Home is proud to present this thoughtful, efficient ADU! We are keeping this special property and making it available for lease. It was a challenge to work with this odd lot. We maximized the 1,100 Sq Ft limit to incorporate 3 bedrooms, built-ins, a dining room, an island kitchen, a walk-in closet in the primary suite, and several storage solutions. This home lives much larger than it’s 1,100 would suggest thanks to good planning. A screened-in porch and a rooftop deck add even more function and living space. Contact me today as an ADU specialist. I have many more like this coming to the market soon! Architect: JH Architecture | General Contractor: Co-Sci | Photos: Jeff Wilson Photography
A TRUE 3 bedroom! WOW! You won't believe this impressive bungalow remodel & addition thoughtfully redesigned & optimized throughout by Making Modern Home. Don't let the size fool you - this detached site condo has EVERYTHING you want: luxurious kitchen, spectacular floorplan w/high ceilings, tons of light, large walk-in master closet & dual sinks! New systems- windows, plumbing, electrical, roof, HVAC, and siding. Large deck off master & kitchen!
Can you believe that this home has an Ikea kitchen?
Owner: Austin787 Proprerties LLC | Contractor: ATX Development | Photos: Twist Tours | Staging: Elite Austin Staging and Design
This is the best and brightest ADU in East Austin!
Design by Making Modern Home | Staging by Elite Austin | Build by ATX Development | Architectural by JH Architecture | Photos by Twisttours | Owner is Austin 787 Properties LLC
This is a Making Modern Home new build in East Austin! As Project Designer, we really focused on creating something special in this new build. We choose to add color to the exterior with its striking black windows and classic white trim details, yet we kept the interior palette restrained. The interior is full of luxurious details such as real wood floors, a custom metal staircase railing, black soapstone countertops, hand-glazed style tiles, upgraded moldings, and copious sunlight through premium windows.
Owner: Austin 787 Properties LLC, Builder: Avery Building Company, Architect: JH Architecture, Staging: Elite, Photos: Twisttours
Making Modern Home wrapped up this architecturally stunning new home located in Austin's premier, walkable Bouldin neighborhood. We designed and directed the project as a spec build (for loyal, repeat investor clients) to deliver custom design & quality without the wait to 78704 buyers. We were there from land acquisition, through design, building, staging, detailing, and listing! The sunlight-filled main floor, master bedroom, and spacious great room overlook lush greenery and a tranquil creek setting through the expansive windows we specified. The timeless kitchen boasts Thermador appliances, custom walnut cabinetry, a walk-in pantry & marble. Upgrades include level 5 smooth drywall, full prewire, stone hearth modern linear fireplace, an Ipe deck, covered patio & custom steel Durango front door. The dining room is a jewel box with 3 sides of glass and a walnut ceiling.
Owner: Revival Homes LLC, Builder: Co-Sci Construction, Architect: JH Architecture, Staging: Elite, Photos: Twisttours, Completed 2017
Making Modern Home recently completed the design for this 78704 new build bungalow in the walkable Bouldin neighborhood! Even though it’s a spec build, it will be lived in by the investors for 2 years, so we added lots of custom features to make it their home for now. Additionally, we helped with ADU (accessory dwelling unit) on the lot for additional income and future separate resale. As an experienced Realtor with a design and development focus, I can help you find or create your next investment property.
Completed 2018. When we found 2 lots side by side and ripe for development, we took it to a repeat investor client and worked as Project Designer from start to finish. Making Modern Home really made sure the designs bested all the others in the area and as a result ALL FOUR UNITS WERE UNDER CONTRACT IN JUST DAYS. We focused on keeping the plans functional (with JH Architecture) and the interior warm and modern, using wood tones, Clay Import tiles and black fixtures. The homes had to be private and accommodate a large hill and we also had to keep construction costs down for the 78721 zip code working with Co-Sci Construction. Overall, we succeeded in helping the clients: FireFighters Buy Houses/Love American Homes accomplish all goals. Staged by Elite Austin. Pictured is the flagship unit. Photos by Jeff Wilson.
Making Modern Home completed this incredible remodel of this rare 1930 East Austin bungalow. As the owner/developer/designer/Realtor, and working with Co-Sci Construction and Elite Austin staging, we couldn't be more pleased with this incredible transformation. The original dark woodwork trim was restored and cleverly added in new areas. We vaulted ceilings, added walnut floors, Spanish tile, new windows, and a good dose of shiplap was saved from the house. We added a second bathroom and it's complete with amazing banana leaf wallpaper. This house was "tear down", but unlike other developers, Making Modern Home had to save this amazing property.
Completed 2016. Dana Ambs | Listing Agent & Co-Sci | General Contractor
Completed 2019. Listing agent | Dana Ambs. Scroll to see before pictures! Making Modern Home added charm where there was none during a full remodel of a “charmless” 1940s home! This home could have been torn down, but we decided to save it to streamline the complex Austin permitting process and keep it consistent with the neighborhood style. This home was listed to sell by me and sold within 36 hours with multiple high offers. The new owners love the Pink Front Door. Every detail was custom executed to create a special home from the hand-shaped archways I designed to the built-in wardrobe in the master bedroom.
Lucky buyers snapped this one up prior to it hitting the Austin MLS! Who could blame them - this ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) has all the features an East Austin buyer could want in its compact 1,100 SqFt! A huge yard shaded by a 200-year-old towering oak tree, tons of sunlight for all of their house plants (some pictured already!), custom walnut cabinets, thoughtful Bedrosian tile, high ceilings, acacia wood floors, oversized garage, polished concrete floors with exposed aggregate, gated front yard…the list goes on. Making Modern Home was delighted to complete the design of this project and then represent the seller for the listing. SOLD OFF-MARKET. For more OFF-MARKET properties, please reach out to me!
Listing Agent: Dana Ambs, Realtor - Compass RE | Designer: Making Modern Home LLC | Builder: Avery Building Company | Photos : Jeff Wilson | Architect: William Hodge, AIA
1732 Hillcrest Unit A 78721 - Was listed at $565,000 3 bed, 3 bath, 1 car garage, 1941 Square Feet
Making Modern Home is proud to present this innovative modern new build! Listed by me - Dana Ambs as a Realtor with Compass. This unit was inspired by modern Scandinavian exteriors hence the dark exterior (Sherwin Wiliams Black Fox) and light stained wood. Part of a duplex with great separation and very little connection, this new build is 1941 square feet of polished, modern, minimal design. BONUS - Downtown views from the Master bedroom, rooftop deck, and attic flex room (using a complicated attic exemption that allows additional square footage to be included within the Austin Code) with an ensuite bath. The generous kitchen with custom walnut accents, the premium black windows, and the sleek luxurious master bath in all black marble exude sophistication! Just completed with Avery Building Company (as builder and owner) and William Hodge AIA. Home Stretch Staging and Design completed the look and was a pleasure to work with.
Contact me for more information or if you are looking for a modern luxury home in Austin!
2 bed, 2 bath, 973 Square Feet. Listed by me - Dana Ambs Realtor | Compass
This East Austin ADU is a detached condo Back House in 78721 with the Making Modern Home design stamp from start to finish. We worked with JH Architecture to create a super-efficient floorplan with luxuries such as a double master sink, walk-in master closet, and dining room all in 973 square feet. The repeat developer client Austin 787 Properties selected Avery Building Company as the contractor and Elite staging punctuated the design. We are most excited about our modern kitchen design using IKEA cabinets in an innovative way surrounding the backsplash window. I definitely plan to use this kitchen concept again - those top cabinets are totally usable! I also like the connection to the outdoors and the small private yard.
Are you looking for an ADU or a first-time home in Austin? I can help. There are definitely some things to watch out for in the condo documents! Contact me for more information.
Completed 2019. Listing Agent | Dana Ambs
This new build with on-trend black cabinets, walnut floors, and lots of sunlight wowed buyers. So much so, that we received multiple offers and backup offers. Making Modern Home acted as a full-scale Designer from start to finish and Listing Realtor. Austin 787Properties LLC acting as the owner hired First Choice Contracting. William Hodge AIA really figured out how to maximize this incredibly challenging infill development site for 2 units (including a “Missing Middle” ADU). This home is walkable to so many great Northloop eateries and shops. The excellent staging from Elite Austin compliments the interior design.
Completed in 2018. Listing Agent | Dana Ambs
Making Modern Home was the project designer working in tandem with Ochona Architecture and Avery Building Company. We strategically crafted the duplex design for maximum privacy and resale with large private yards and distinct architectural styles between each unit. This unit includes custom walnut cabinetry and premium metalwork. The investor is so pleased, that we have many projects in the works currently. Staging by Susannah Blanton.
We all know that 78704 real estate is among the most sought-after and vibrant markets in the country. As a Realtor, I see more people getting creative with real estate like this Bouldin ADU Making Modern Home recently completed. The ADU (accessory dwelling unit) allows an additional unit to be added onto a single-family lot thereby creating a private site condo. These units can then be sold separately, rented, or used as short-term rentals in some cases. We focused on designing a luxurious experience for a leaser in this small (limited to 1,100 SqFt by code), but high end rental. Gold fixtures, custom cabinets, premium trim, and rare features such as a generous walk-in closet are sure to impress renters and command top dollar for investors. Contact me for more information.
Who says rentals have to be boring? Making Modern Home purchased this East Austin 1990s build home (using a sophisticated owner-financing/wrap tool) and quickly got to work. We transformed it into a sophisticated rental full of personality. The location is first-rate in hip 78702. AND GUESS WHAT? We are now building an ADU in the backyard behind the pictured fence. This little home has turned into a phenomenal investment property. Looking for investor and development property in Central Austin? Contact me.
Completed 2019. Dana Ambs | Listing Agent
ADU in North Loop - Project Design by Making Modern Home - At only 942 square feet, this Accessory Dwelling Unit has style beyond its small size. We worked with architect William Hodge to maximize this lot. The exterior in its dark Shewin Williams City Scape color is particularly striking - as are the custom black cabinets. One way to make any space feel larger is to add lots of windows as we have done here. (P.S. - some crew members decided to use the bedroom art to cover a patch way up high right before pictures. Not cute.)
Completed 2018. Listing Agent | Dana Ambs
If you like the remodel of the exterior of this Hyde Park bungalow, you will be blown away by the voluminous interior! Working as the real estate consultant, interior/exterior designer, and Realtor for this home, Making Modern Home directed the expansion of this cottage to accommodate a new master suite, a loft, and a vaulted great room. We were working on a tight budget but managed to achieve a high-end look by detailing the windows, stacking stock cabinets for a custom look, and selecting a palette of warm and cool tones. We were so happy with the wonderful staging by Elite Austin. Ochona Architecture figured out the best way to maximize the loft! This project took a long time and there were multiple challenges with the contractor and city, but when it was finally finished, we were pleased with how the spacious, appointed modern interior blended with the newly restored classic bungalow exterior.
Making Modern Home just completed the remodel of this 1960s mid-century ranch! We are happy to share more about this super successful investment and design. Owned, remodeled, designed, and listed by Dana Ambs of Making Modern Home. More information on Instagram and the blog. Contact us for purchase inquiries and real estate strategies like this one.
Completed 2018. Listing Agent: Dana Ambs, Photos: Jeff Wilson
Completed 2019: One of Making Modern Home’s latest adventures. We bought, restored, redesigned, and decorated this 1920s cottage near the Pearl in San Antonio. It’s the perfect AirBnb with it’s 4 bedrooms and the new bathroom! You can stay here - bookings are filling up though! Let me know if interested. One of the main features of this bungalow was the brick we added in the bathroom and kitchen to tie in with the existing fireplace! It really adds to the patina of this charming sun-filled home. We enjoyed hand selecting every item for this home over the past year. The home became an AirBnb Plus listing very quickly.
Remodeled 2019. Listing Agent | Dana Ambs
Making Modern Home knew this East Austin Bungalow needed a complete refresh to allow its MidCentury Modern roots to show. After several months of renovation, the refinished wood floors and the custom black cabinets steal the show! The blue Dandy hex bathroom tile from Clay Imports mixed with the modern matte black fixtures make the home stylish - fitting for its hip McKinley Heights 78702 East Austin neighborhood. We took this one from start to finish and there were many challenges along the way. Austin has become a very challenging place for permits and for remodel labor. Fortunately though, when listed summer 2019 (by me as Realtor), it sold quickly and with a lots of interest from design savvy buyers! In an age of mostly condos, duplexes, and soulless new builds in East Austin, we were happy to be able to offer a compelling small single family remodeled home at a reasonable asking price of $435,000. Yes, in Austin right now - that’s reasonable - even for a 1 bathroom! Let me know if you are interested in purchasing your own remodel project.
Though completed in 2011, this charming bungalow in the vibrant French Place neighborhood is one of Making Modern Home's most timeless and popular projects. We were the buyer's Realtor too! Check out the before pictures. Though the house was well maintained, it lacked sophistication. We transformed this little bungalow into a bright, custom, showstopper without the high-end price tag. In 2017, the owner sold the home to upgraded to a large Wilshire Woods 60’s Ranch that we remodeled. Pictures coming 2020 for that one!
Completed 2016. Listing Agent | Dana Ambs. Making Modern Home completed this entire project in lovely McKinley Heights in East Austin - From purchase, design, remodel, to sale. This home was a very basic 2000s build, but we transformed it into a popular and fresh property ready to compete with new construction. The remodel took just 5 weeks and in just 36 hours after listing, 8 offers over asking price came in! We are thrilled with how well this project came out. Scroll down for before pictures. Contact me at 512.777.1234 for more details or to partner with me on the next one.
Completed 2016. Making Modern Home's spec build project designed from the ground up! Per the city of Austin, this is a "back house" was limited to just 850 square feet at the time! Working with Ochona architecture, Making Modern Home designed an efficient 2 bedroom/2 bathroom floorplan with privacy, light, storage, and a generous open living area all in a Palm Springs Mid-Century Modern inspired shell perfectly suited for this 60s East Austin streetscape. Gorgeous glazed brick tile, walnut cabinets, polished concrete floors, and mid-century light fixtures complete the look. Check out the front house too! This MCM gem was built in collaboration with Co-Sci construction for Hippie Hollow Homes and Firefighters Buy Houses . Incredible staging by Elite Staging.
Completed 2016. This home sold for considerably more money than any comparable property. DESIGN PAYS! This 850 SF back house "Condo" is one of Making Modern Home's most successful projects in the Holly neighborhood of East Austin! We planned it, designed it, managed the construction working with Co-Sci construction as GC, and co-listed it. It's a challenge to fit a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom in just 850 square feet, but great planning and classic modern cottage design can make even small spaces feel special! We love the walnut and white oak accents, the gray cabinets, Carrara marble counters, gold fixtures, gray penny tile, and Spanish tile. The 18' ceilings in the living room, dining room, and kitchen are stunning. Not to mention, the roof top deck and 1 car garage! This innovative alley house lives large and is ready for a creative and fun owner! Great staging as always by Elite. Let's talk about finding you the perfect ADU.
Incredible New Build with so much character. SOLD! Making Modern Home partnered with the developers as lead Project Designer and Realtor. We worked from beginning to end on this one and just finished! Don't you love the CasaBlanca cement tiles on the front of walnut butcher block island - they are from Rustico Tile and Stone. The Ikea cabinets and cooper pendant lights create a unique look that is so different than standard builder grade. The staging looks amazing thanks to Elite Austin! Meredith at TwistTours really captured the space so well Thanks to Avery Building Co for making the build fun and Ochona Architecture for the quality form! We have created a home that is perfectly fit to tuck under the 200 year old Live Oak tree in the front yard.
Completed 2017. Listing Agent | Dana Ambs
This is a 2016 Making Modern Home project - from real estate strategy, to interior and exterior design, project management, and detailing! The appealing design made the house SELL for well over any comparable property. A 1920's bungalow in the incredible Holly neighborhood of East Austin, loved, restored, and enlarged! We kept the original bungalow complete with its sweet front porch detailing, dark wood interior trim, original brick flue (uncovered during demolition), and archway. After doubling the size of the old home with a modern addition, we complimented the cottage charm with a modern white palette, gold fixtures, Spanish tile, modern metal railings, new dark windows, pecan floating shelves, and gray oak floors. The results are spectacular. The new great room, kitchen, loft and master bedroom/ athroom enhance the vintage living room and dining room of the 1920's bungalow. The investor group on this flip/addition is thrilled with Making Modern Home's innovative take on this classic and we are currently the co-listing agent on this. Let me know if you want more details on a design/build collaboration or to make an offer! 512.777.1234. Our favorite features are the cement tile (actually a much more value priced option), the black hex tile, the gold lighting, all the sunlight, the original wood work, the curb appeal (thanks to our simple landscape design the compliments the classic bungalow features), and of course the floor plan! It's a real challenge to add a 2 story addition to a 1 story home, but I think we struck the right balance here! Oh, and the staging - Thanks to Elite for an awesome job as always! Also, thanks to Co-Sci Construction - what a great job executing the vision for this gem! Enjoy!
Completed 2011. Making Modern Home’s first Austin flip (we had restored homes in St. Louis prior). This house began as a humble 1950's ranch with a shabby 60's addition in need of many repairs. The vision was to create a "Craftsman" Bungalow and optimize the floor plan. The entire right side of the home was opened up and, where once there was a laundry room, there is now a breakfast room serving as the "hub" of the home. The house now has 3 generously sized bedrooms, 2 luxurious bathrooms, 2 large living areas, 2 dining areas, and a high-end kitchen. Perfect for entertaining, the rooms in the back of the house now open to the large yard with french doors. When listed for sale, the house sold in just 2 days for almost DOUBLE the original purchase price. Thanks to savvy renovations and a lot of DIY work, the extensive renovation which included all new siding, windows, roofing, porch, decks, carport, kitchen, wood trim, bathrooms, flooring, drywall, plumbing, electrical, foundation, sub-flooring, and HVAC, totaled around $60 a square foot with soft costs (closing and carrying). The home was purchased for little more than land value. A similar grade of new construction would cost about $150 a square foot. Notable features of this house are:
-blending in new 2 1/4" red oaks floors with the old floors and finishing them all to match
-using stock IKEA kitchen cabinetry, but using custom trim and painting upper cabinets for an expensive custom look
-opening up walls in the center of the home to create a new breakfast room in the existing footprint (adding value!)
-going through many meetings with the city to get permits for adding a front porch in the front yard setback (this was really needed to take the house into a higher listing price bracket and totally worth all the extra work)
-Installing all new windows and creating custom 3 piece trim
-Lots of DIY work including tile work, building a custom shower pan, detailed millwork, all interior painting etc.
-"Finding" square footage and rooms in the existing footprint by maximizing the floor plan.
-Creating a master bathroom vanity using stair newel posts as legs, readily available sinks, and butcher block countertops
Photos by Jeff Wilson
Completed 2016. This humble 1960s MCM ranch had great bones - such as Roman brick, horizontal lines, and a good floor plan for modifications. To get the most value Making Modern Home had to unearth it as the home had been run-down. The bold blue front door complements the mid-century modern ranch completed with the native landscape. New black bronze windows accentuate the Roman brick. Inside walnut floating shelves and the vanity look great paired with hex tile, bamboo floors, and all-white scheme. Construction by Co-Sci Construction for Hippie Hollow Homes and Fire Fighters Buy Houses. Listed by Stepstone Realty. Staging by Elite.
The charming ADU new build is an example of just how much work and patience goes into crafting a thoughtful New Build in the City of Austin. This is an investment property for the most diligent homeowners I have ever met! Making Modern Home was honored to “fix” their ADU Alley House design that was “tortured” by all the tree root restrictions in Austin. We worked with the owners and architect to complete a plan that would satisfy the tree people and then waited a year for the permits. During construction, there were more delays! After all the effort the homeowners put in, I am truly impressed with the final product. Making Modern Home directed all the architectural and interior design elements including the windows, trim, detailing, cabinets, flooring, paint, tile, fixtures etc, but the clients staged this perfectly for their short term rental use through https://www.renters-club.com/425150/#rooms-title
Standing the test of time - Completed in 2011 by Making Modern Home, this loft had builder-grade finishes, but a great location. We directed a few surface upgrades and constructed the custom floating entertainment center and bar (by modifying Ikea shoe cabinets!). Then we carefully selected and installed every piece including the art gallery, custom coffee table, vintage Kilim rug (which may have involved spending a whole day in a dusty shed full of rugs out in the country while being forced to drink copious amounts of insanely strong Turkish tea to earn the privilege of buying a rug that the seller would choose regardless of which one we wanted to buy). Now, this loft reflects the creative 78704 owners. And we have stories to tell.
Completed 2014. This South Congress MCM had great bones, but they were masked. Making Modern Home directed the redesign of the interior and exterior of this 60s ranch. Painting the windows black and painting the brick gray with dark trim reinvented this gem. Modern detailing completed the look. When listed the home sold for roughly $30,000 more than comparable properties and well over the asking price since the design made it extremely desirable. The investor was very happy with the outcome and has hired Making Modern Home for many more projects.
Completed 2015. Situated just north of the ever popular Mid-Century Modern neighborhood of Allandale, the Wooten neighborhood now holds its own with the modern, yet inviting remodel of this 1970's home. Just completed with the investment group Firefighters Buy Houses, Making Modern Home worked as a strategic designer from the beginning by replacing all windows and doors, maximizing the home's floorplan, selecting architectural finishes throughout including hickory floors, dark cabinets with white quartz countertops, glass 1x3 tile backsplash, a stunning blue and aqua penny tile bathroom floor, and a modern stucco treatment to update the fireplace. The biggest change in this home though was the windows and doors that Making Modern Home custom designed. The 12' triple sliding glass door at the rear of the home redefines this home and it only cost $617! No joke! Firefighters Buy Houses did a tremendous job installing it and seamlessly integrating the glass panels into a wall pocket. In this home, another "big idea" was to eliminate the super tiny breakfast room all too common in these 70's ranches so we could opt for a generous island that's over 8' long! From an investment standpoint, in this case losing second dining area and prioritizing the kitchen is sure to pay off! What a wonderful group to work with, and we have already started many more projects!
Completed 2018. Whether you call them Granny Flats, Guest Houses, ADUs, Accessory Dwelling Units, Site Condos, Alley Houses, B-Units, or Back Houses, they are all the rage in Austin right now! They are limited to 1,100 square feet or smaller - this one is just 990 square feet! ADUs are one of the few ways we can add more housing units in the central Austin core. Making Modern Home has extensive knowledge with designing, building, and even financing ADUs. There are a lot of restrictions with the city. If you are looking to buy the right property where you can build an ADU or if you are looking for one to buy finished/in progess, I know of a lot coming up soon! This ADU (that we designed with Ochona Architecture) in Hyde Park flew off the market day 1! Buyers liked the innovative upstairs living area with vaulted ceilings and plenty of light. The investors were so pleased with the outcome that we have 12 more projects going right now! Stay tuned.
Completed 2014. This Hyde Park Bungalow was prime for a classic restoration, but it had to be on an extremely limited budget. Bad updates and layers of paint obscured this home's best features. Making Modern Home as project designer lovingly directed restoring the beauty and charm of this house while updating the floor plan and fixtures. The original door knobs were retained and stripped to become a main feature. Classic white hex tile was added to the bathroom. Warm oak butcher block countertops complement the modern cabinets as well as the vintage shaker cabinets. A classic color scheme emphasizes the historic character of this house and neighborhood. Americana porch details like the flag and fern complete this classic perfectly updated Hyde Park Bungalow re-imagined by Making Modern Home.
Completed 2014. This perfect urban homestead Making Modern Home just completed is the rare combination of a full acre in South central Austin and a fully re-imagined simple 50s home that became a Mid Century Modern Ranch. We started by reworking the unusual floor plan to create a third bedroom, second dining area, and second living area. With the new plan, certain wall areas were retained for support creating an open, livable, and unique layout centering around the kitchen island. Several Mid Century Modern finishes were chosen including the carbonized strand woven bamboo floors (to reference the original wood floors), reuse of the old wood slab doors, and the brass and black hardware throughout. Even the original windows, now painted black, were used. The home has a tremendous connection to the full peaceful acre it occupies. The modern cement hacienda tile in both bathrooms and backsplash were bold choices but add to the character and uniqueness of the home. We are proud that this home isn't like any other flip on the market. This home is truly a wonderful urban homestead, ready for its buyer. In collaboration with Redemption Home Solutions.
Completed 2016. What a thoroughly charming cottage reimagined and transformed after years of neglect! Check out BEFORE PICTURES at the bottom. Making Modern Home found, purchased, lovingly remodeled, and pre-sold this small East Austin Cottage. This is a tiny home at just 848 square feet. Yet, the old floorplan with some tweaks, packed in 2 bedrooms and 2 tiny bathrooms. Real American Hickory floors, rich gold fixtures, hand-printed wallpaper, bold Spanish tile choices, rich colors, and well detailed trim/5 panel doors (some painstakingly restored/salvaged), black kitchen cabinets, custom lights, and brick walls in the kitchen make this cottage absolutely vibrant. The new owners love it and inspired the awesome coral front door (and bath ceiling)! What's next? THE 1930 BUNGALOW NEXT DOOR (You can see it off to the right in the exterior photo!) And it will be FOR SALE, so send me a message through the contact form on this site for more info!
Completed 2014. This is a south Austin kitchen for a stylish homeowner, meant to look high-end but on a modest budget. We used IKEA cabinets but painted them navy Sherwin Williams Naval SW 6224. We opened up the kitchen to the living room without sacrificing a TV wall or having to engineer a downdraft vent system (as would be the case with a stove positioned in the island). The brass details make all the difference. We even handmade a brass fixture for over the breakfast table that wasn't installed at the time of photographs. The homeowner complimented the look with their great style and furniture choices! The living, dining, and kitchen area feel light, bright, energized, and fresh.
What to do when you need a garage, an office, a large storage area, and a "hang out" space outside of your small 990 square foot house? Making Modern Home helped this owner meet all of these needs by looking towards the detached over-sized one-car garage. Part of the garage was retained for 1 car, but in the additional 7'-0" of space an office was built and a 18'-0" x 8'-0" storage loft was built over the parking structure. At only 7'-0" wide, the office makes the most of the space with floating cabinets, custom oak woodwork, a hand-built pipe ladder to the loft, and the reuse of a door from the original 1930's main house. The owner is enjoying the space and updated the yard with some design advice from Making Modern Home, complimenting the new garage office. Photos by Jeff Wilson.
Completed 2018. Listing Agent | Dana Ambs. This duplex provided Making Modern Home an opportunity to create two different environments to appeal to different buyers and win out over the competition. The modern urban side can be seen here. This side is more of a modern farmhouse style. The cement Spanish hex tile from Clay Imports steals the show! The bold teal color and graphic pattern perfectly anchor the gray kitchen. Walnut and warm wood accents and thoughtful windows add interest to the space. This unit sold immediately once listed by me through Stepstone Realty and the investor/builder/owner Avery Building Company is so thrilled with the results we have many more projects coming soon. Thank you Ochona for the architecture services and permitting. Staging by Blanton Design and photos by Twisttours.
Wait until you see this Cabana with an outdoor shower and kitchen, bold tile, gold fixtures, ipe deck, grand fireplace, and a pool overlooking downtown Austin. One day we will get professional images.
Completed 2015. Making Modern Home started with a blank slate and completely designed and furnished the interior of this recently built Barton Hills duplex. The cognac leather sofa serves as an anchor piece for this masculine finish out. MockingbirdMade (www.mockingbirdmade.com) was an incredible resource. Not only did they have vintage items and fine art pieces they also hand-built many of the custom case goods. With the direction of Making Modern Home, Mockingbird detailed and built the walnut and gray lacquer mid-century modern entertainment center, foyer console, dining room table, daybed under the stairs, office furniture, and pecan headboard. We couldn't be happier with their fine craftsmanship and service! They also built the industrial light that anchors the living room! How wonderful. This home's design juxtaposes modern FLOR carpet tiles with vintage rugs, antique brass with slick quartz, bold patterns with soft textures, fine art with IKEA finds, and Kartell Masters chairs with a walnut table. This home's design proves that modern can be warm, that a masculine space does not have to look like a "bachelor pad", and that sourcing locally can give you the best bang for the buck. The overall look is collected, thoughtful, and just as poised for entertaining as it is for kicking back, playing guitar, and drinking a Texas brew.
Making Modern Home was hard at work for years making this Mid Century Modern masterpiece the jewel of Rollingwood. Everything was custom and to the highest level of quality. In a neighborhood of McMansions, this incredible piece of history has been preserved and celebrated! One day, we will get professional photographs. Decor by the famous Renee Abbott (Shabby Slips)
Ready to add a back house to increase rental income or to condo regime and sell to pay off your mortgage? Having designed, built, and directed dozens of these ADUs in Austin, I can guide you through the process. I can separate fact from fiction. Plan on spending about $200 per square foot, but with values and rents going up, this is still a great way to add cash flow or equity to your property. Plus I have financing for 3.5% I can set you up with! We can help you finance, design, strategize, and partner with a reputable GC. Call me today for your consultation. Here is one of the recent ADUs (backyard apartments) we directed for repeat investor clients with architectural services by Ochona and building by Avery Building Company. This one is 1,099 square feet, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and for sale for 350k. 1107 Estes Ave 78721 is inspired by Scandinavian design. We optimized the floor plan of this small home, added plenty of natural light, and used copper fixtures with hand-glazed tile to enhance the interior space.
Check out before photos at the bottom! You won't believe the transformation of this once forlorn French Place bungalow. Completed early 2015, Making Modern Home lovingly enlarged and remodeled this space into a functional, attractive family home on a very limited budget. Our interior and exterior design, floor plan revisions, and project management made the most of the existing home. We expanded into the attic to add two bedrooms and a bathroom. We had to fit a stairwell into the existing footprint. Ochona architecture did a brilliant job making it work! The homeowners love their home and complimented the interior design with their thoughtful decor and style. The home now has 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 living areas, vaulted spaces, and a kitchen as the hub of home! From the beginning Making Modern Home knew the way to add value was expanding into the attic; it wasn't easy getting the right structural upgrades and floor plan in place, but we are thrilled with the results and the homeowners are appreciative of all the value-added! Notice that we reused the dining room hutch as a linen cabinet in the downstairs bathroom. We also plumbed for a gas fireplace to be added in the future in the formal living room. Our favorite feature is the awesome Jeldwen windows we designed.
Completed 2018. This Accessory Dwelling Unit ADU is only 1,008 square feet but we worked with JH Architecture to craft a super functional floorplan. We originally wholesaled the lot to the investors: FireFighters Buy Houses/Loved American Homes. Then Making Modern Home spearheaded the project design down to the last details. When listed, all 4 units were contracted within days. Expertly built by Co-Sci. Staged by Elite Austin.
Completed 2014. Making Modern Home was the project designer for this Northwest Hills home.
Working with the investors and contractor, we made some bold choices (such as the Spanish tile floor in the master, floating tub, striking exterior color scheme) and added some novel features (like the 16' glass sliding door that cost only $700! and the kitchen floor plan updates) to make this home stand out from the competition. When recently sold, this home went for $30,000 over the asking price. The investors think the design fee was well worth the investment, and we are currently completing several more projects together as a result. This was a classic case of the sum equalling more than the part; partly because the materials, finishes, and fixtures were all frugal choices. When combined correctly, simple finishes can really come together to create a show-stopping design. Staging by others.
Completed 2014. Listing Agent | Dana Ambs. Making Modern Home's renovation and design project is this Mid Century Modern Gem! We developed and managed this project from start to finish. Located in the heart of Cherrywood, this 1950s home had great bones, but they were hidden under decades of neglect. After a thoughtful and full remodel, this modern ranch has come alive! Now, this home epitomizes the Austin indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The refinished white oak floors (and new floors in the kitchen to match) serve as a foundation for the other finishes in the home. The kitchen has IKEA applaud cabinets (that look remarkably high-end due to quality installation and planning) and shittake color Caeserstone countertops with a Carerra marble backsplash. Completing the kitchen is the champagne bronze faucet and Bertazzoni range. The bathroom has brass fixtures, a black hex tile floor, and Carerra marble walls for a classic look that's still modern. The original interior doors were restored to bring much-needed character to the home. We hope that our renovation and staging celebrate everything this home and neighborhood has to offer! Contact me for more Cherrywood exclusives. Photos by Jeff Wilson Photography.
Completed in 2016 in just 8 weeks and SOLD for over asking! Listing Agent | Dana Ambs.
Making Modern Home just completed a full Scandinavian Farmhouse-inspired remodel of a large, basic '70s, two-story. As the project developer, we carefully made all choices to maximize its buyer appeal. Quality design improvements, non-structural floor plan tweaks, and thoughtful details bring this home to modern standards. The staging by Susannah Blanton completes the look! Some of the most important improvements are the standing seam metal roof, the new front porch gable, and columns, the white oak wide plank wood floors, the customized floating vanity in the master bathroom with full Carerra marble walls, the bold Spanish tile selections, custom metal stair railing, and even the purple front door set this home apart from others on the market. At first, we found it very difficult to re-imagine a basic 1970's 2-story, but we are thrilled with the results and know that the warm Modern Scandinavian Farmhouse direction was the perfect choice to complement a modern lifestyle.
Completed 2017. Austin is a “newer” city, so there are very few “True Lofts”. Making Modern Home redesigned this once boring, basic Sabine condo into a truly amazing, urban downtown loft. The whole unit was defined by the brick that we added (it's actually ceramic tile for $3 a square foot that can be grouted not mortered for an easy DIY project). We chose a bold navy-colored wall, gold accents, and higher-end fixtures. Now the condo feels like a real downtown loft. We did have to work with a large existing sectional sofa in a tiny footprint, but we managed to find an unconventional, but highly functional layout! The investors expertly implemented the whole design and brought the great idea of the lofted second bedroom! They are happy with the premium fully furnished luxury rental! Are you looking for a downtown loft or condo? I can help as a REALTOR with experience in Downtown real estate.
This duplex could have been just another sad example of East Austin Development, but instead, Making Modern Home partnered with the Investor to create a more meaningful, designed housing. We were the listing Realtor as well. Both units sold to happy buyers! The investors are so pleased with the results that we are working on many more projects Coming Soon! We are so pleased with the wonderful staging by Elite Austin and the photos from Twisttours.
Completed 2017. Listing Agent | Dana Ambs
Completed 2018. Listing Agent | Dana Ambs. Making Modern Home served once again as Project Designer on this new build ADU for loyal, repeat investor clients. We went with a modern finish out for the Crestview neighborhood to reference the mid-century modern front house (that sold before it was ever listed or photographed). We love the fresh palette with aqua Ikea cabinets, leather pulls, and glazed penny tile. This was another success story when we listed it since it sold for well over the asking price. We are already working on 12 more projects with the same investors! P.S. - that gap in the upper cabinets was for floating shelves that were installed after photos. Argh… RightStage was contractor. Staging by Elite. Photos by Twisttours.
Completed 2019. Sorry Austinites, you can’t have this. Making Modern Home consulted thoroughly on the complete and total restoration of a home that was barely standing in San Antonio. In the Westfort neighborhood, if more remodels like this happen, it may go Historic! That said, almost every single thing except that spectacular stair is new and not historic.
