WESTLAKE RESIDENCE SET AGAINST CITY VIEWS 

Captivating views of the Austin skyline is the breathtaking backdrop for this Santa Barbara–inspired home masterfully nestled and lavishly appointed on approximately 1.41 acres in the rolling hills of Westlake - just ten minutes to downtown. An expansive and soaring porte-cochere and a butterfly vaulted entry create a dramatic debut to this remarkable home. Attention to the finest of details is the benchmark for Butterfield and Shore Builders who have enjoyed notable success in the design and construction of numerous homes in Austin’s exclusive neighborhoods. The main level living areas are inclusive of a private book shelved study, a sports room complete with granite entertaining bar, and an approximately 20- by 23-foot great room with hand carved fireplace and enchanting city-view exposure.

Additionally, one cannot overlook the oversized wine cellar dressed with rock walls and terracotta basket weave flooring, built-in's for wine storage, a table for tasting and two commercial size wine refrigerators, ready for entertaining. Knotty Alder wood walnut stained cabinetry in the kitchen provides the framework for the Viking professional appliance package: multi-drawer dishwasher, 48" refrigerator and 48" range. The range is housed inside a stone arched wall with a hand painted Italian deco tiled vent hood with bronze metal accents. Coordinating travertine and sea grass backsplash complete the aesthetic. All the kitchen components are placed graciously around Crema Marfil granite counters, an oversized working island which is hand painted and glazed, as well as a breakfast bar that looks out upon the great room. The master retreat is secluded from the rest of the home. Designed for ultimate relaxation, the suite is located to enjoy the serene views of the surrounding hill country, as well as the downtown Austin skyline.

The lavishly appointed spa-like bath is true refuge for the owners, featuring hand made tiling in a mosaic pattern surrounding the large spa bath tub and large shower, direct access to the laundry facilities, as well as an incredibly spacious walk-in closet. The master retreat, windowed breakfast room, great room and the sports room all share views of downtown, the UT Tower, and the Capitol. Never lacking attention to detail, this residence features extensive ceiling treatments of inlaid wood beams, groin vaults, and brick and stone treatments. Equally matched is the flooring. Five inch wide hickory wood flooring in a dark finish covers the majority of the first level. While travertine, octagon shaped terracotta, stone tile and Berber loop carpet complete the remainder of the interiors. The exterior terraces have stone tile in a large Versailles pattern. Accessible via an enclosed elevator, the lower level host’s three bedrooms, a children's library and media room which all open onto the covered terrace. With approximately 3,000 square feet of outdoor living and miles of widespread views of the Austin skyline, the home seamlessly blends into the outdoors.

The European-style heated pool and spa are highlighted by limestone terracing, al fresco dining areas, stone fireplaces and sitting areas on both levels, and an elaborate outdoor kitchen. All provide a sanctuary for the home owner or a fine gathering place for entertaining friends and family. This masterfully appointed home will be complete in December of 2008.