Here, the planting palette transitions from arid cactus and grasses to shaded sedges and Japanese maples. Sunny pool terraces lined with yucca give way to lush playscapes suspended in the canopy. The experience shifts gradually but intentionally, creating a sequence of environments that feel distinct yet connected.
The boundaries of the property were treated as design opportunities rather than constraints. A thoughtfully detailed fence of sustainably sourced Golden Balau hardwood capped with steel plate frames the space from the street.
The pool itself is not decked on all four sides. Instead, one edge dissolves into a lush xeric garden while another is softened by grasses and vines that spill gently into the pathway.
The layout unfolds as a series of experiential spaces. Mature pecan trees support a suspended tree net, a brass outdoor shower and a hidden firepit tucked just out of sight from the pool introduce moments of discovery and retreat, reinforcing the layered character of the space.
Ecotones are the meeting and convergence of two or more ecosystems. That layered condition defines the Texas Hill Country, as well as this reimagined landscape.
Temporary Images courtesy Open Envelope Studios
This project showcases extensive steelwork, including long trellises, retaining walls, and carefully crafted landscape steps, all thoughtfully integrated into a hillside setting.
Tucked away in the peaceful Old Enfield neighborhood, the property enjoys a sense of privacy and timeless character, surrounded by an abundance of mature heritage trees. The front walkway features a custom-made water fountain, complemented by lush, detailed plantings and a blend of brick and stone pathways. From the back porch, the property opens to an expansive landscape with a custom outdoor kitchen, multiple inviting seating areas, a hot tub, and several tranquil water features. A canopy of established trees provides shade, while native plantings enhance the natural beauty.
The property also offers views of Peace Park and is within walking distance of the University of Texas.
Images: Keven Martinez – Monolith Studios
We have the classic Hyde Park village context, with neighbors fairly close by that feature a colorful array of plants decorating historic architecture + classic landscapes all around.
This ecotopes project seeks to not only tie together the client’s individual residential program, but also the surrounding neighborhood context — a signature curvilinear fence panel, composed of steel strips, establishes a boundary statement without creating separation, only to reveal a welcoming hardwood entry deck at the main door of the structure.
At the center, an inventive ADU designed by renowned AlterStudio soaks up the surrounding landscape, composed with inspiring visual perspectives, but also with enjoyable outdoor elements where gravel paths, give way to boldly contoured zoysia turf surfaces to allow playful access
Finally, sustainable native plantings punctuate key visual features and provide screening as well.
Images courtesy ecotopes
Set within a quiet residential pocket of Northwest Austin, this understated rain garden transforms a narrow side yard into a functional and ecologically rich landscape feature.
Designed to capture and slow runoff, the garden weaves a naturalistic dry creek through layered native plantings, allowing water to infiltrate while reducing erosion and relieving pressure on traditional drainage systems.
A mix of grasses, perennials, and small shrubs provides year-round texture and habitat, softening the fence line and creating a sense of depth in a compact space. Carefully placed stone and gravel elements guide water movement while adding structure and visual interest.
As the garden matures, it will continue to knit into the surrounding tree canopy, offering a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant solution that reflects the character and climate of Central Texas living.
Images: Marc Opperman
A Study in Modern Elevation
Located on Spanish Oak Drive in Austin, this project by Austin Outdoor Design is a masterclass in modern outdoor living that harmonizes geometric precision with a natural, wooded backdrop. The sophisticated multi-level layout maximizes a steeply sloping site to create distinct outdoor rooms that capture a stunning view of the downtown skyline.
The architectural water elements serve as the property’s centerpiece, featuring a half-Olympic infinity-edge lap pool that appears to spill into the surrounding tree canopy, paired with a raised, geometric spa that anchors the lower terrace. A refined material palette of light-toned masonry and warm wood decking creates a clean, contemporary aesthetic, bridging the gap between the residence and the hillside.
For entertaining, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen and shaded lounge area are sheltered by a sleek, minimalist pavilion. These functional zones for swimming, sunbathing, and dining are defined by strategic, stepped terraces that maintain an open and airy feel. Ultimately, this residence proves that luxury and ecological responsibility can coexist, offering a compelling story of high-end modernism that respects its Texas roots.
A note from the architect: The Residence captivates tourgoers by balancing grand scale with hidden sustainability. While its striking half-Olympic infinity pool creates a seamless visual bridge to the downtown Austin skyline, the project’s true “quiet hero” is a massive 5,000-gallon rainwater harvesting system tucked into the design.
This feature highlights a sophisticated commitment to the local environment, allowing the lush, wooded site to thrive despite the challenges of its dramatic, sloping topography. By pairing such a high-capacity conservation tool with a luxury outdoor kitchen and minimalist pavilion, Austin Outdoor Design proves that high-end modernism and ecological responsibility can coexist beautifully. This “hidden” infrastructure, combined with the site’s elevation, offers a compelling story of a home that respects its Texas roots while looking toward a sustainable—and scenic—future.
Images: Coming Soon
Tucked into a thoughtfully designed landscape, this home is a true celebration of nature, family, and outdoor living. Created for a homeowner passionate about growing food and connecting with the land, the front yard welcomes you with softened street-side garden beds, playful elements for children, and flourishing apple trees.
A winding natural flagstone path leads you to the backyard oasis, where relaxation and adventure meet. Here, you’ll find a pool and spacious decking, a vine-draped pergola for shaded gatherings, and unique features like a teepee retreat, soaking tub, sauna, and invigorating cold plunge.
Blending beauty, function, and a deep love of the outdoors, this landscape offers an inspiring glimpse into what’s possible when design and nature come together.
Images: Jasmine Frink / Media Maverick
Located on Winding Creek Drive in Austin, this project demonstrates the dramatic potential of a comprehensive outdoor renovation. The centerpiece of the transformation is a complete pool remodel that introduces a new beach entry and a sophisticated full spa. A standout architectural feature is the vibrant teal tile waterfall that spills from the raised spa into the main pool, complemented by fresh plaster and updated tiling throughout.
To support a seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle, a custom pool house and integrated storage unit were added to the site. The interior design of the pool house reflects the aesthetic of the pool area, notably through matching teal tile accents in the bathroom’s walk-in shower. The project is rounded out by significant hardscape modifications and extensions, creating an expansive lounging area under a stunning dark wood-slat ceiling with integrated cooling. This renovation offers tourgoers a detailed look at how thoughtful design and material consistency can turn an existing backyard into a cohesive, luxury retreat.
Images: Coming Soon
A deeper focus on some of our outstanding 2026 Tour homes.
The Camino Alto project is a great example of how modular off-site construction is a construction method — not a type of home. It’s a method that can be applied across multiple project types.
We Spoke with Amy Lutz Bryant, founder and Principal Designer at Butter Lutz Interiors, and Mark Carlson, AIA, founder and Principal Architect of Austin Studio
We spoke with Davey McEathron of Davey McEathron Architecture & Interiors (DMA) about his rammed earth ADU on the 2026 Austin Modern Home Tour. In
