Project Spotlight: A renovated mid-century Austin ranch stays true to its Texas roots

It’s been a while since our last Project Spotlight, but we can’t wait to dive back in and explore this newly-renovated Austin home full of unique and inspiring details. This small Texas ranch is nestled near Zilker Park, which sits at the juncture of Barton Creek and the Colorado River, comprised of nearly 350 acres of publicly owned land. A short walk to Austin City Limits, the home is now an easy place to explore the busting artistry of the city and its idyllic surroundings. The wonderful Mark Ashby Design transformed this small home into a dynamic, mid-century modern escape. The home underwent an intensive remodel, with its kitchen, sunken den, and bathrooms completely reimagined. It’s inspiring in its transformation — but more so in its attention to detail. Every aspect, from built-in textures and furniture to custom terrazzo tile, is thoughtfully designed, placed, and styled. The end result is a modern, streamline retreat that remains effortlessly Austin.
Designer: Mark Ashby Design
Architect: Rick and Cindy Black Architects
Photographer: Clay Grier
Entryway
We’ll start at the entryway, which looks out onto the dining room and through to the living room windows, thanks to the home’s airy, open floor plan. One of our favorite details is the solid oak Dining Table by Ethnicraft, with their Slice Dining Table being the most similar. It’s simplicity is perfectly juxtaposed with these deep red velvet dining chairs.
Details, details, details. This beautiful custom millwork adds a degree of separation to the otherwise open kitchen and dining room.
Kitchen
The open kitchen includes custom cabinetry with built-in, integrated hardware.
The perfect reading nook. Simple accents, like these textiles, put a warm, western spin on the home’s clean, streamlined interiors.
Ashby noted that his team loved the challenge of designing this open floor plan — especially the sunken den, which adds spatial distance to the kitchen. Oh, and the floor? It’s custom terrazzo tile throughout.
Living Room
The living room is the ultimate mid-century modern space, while remaining quintessentially Austin with deep, warm, red and brown accents. The large windows offset darker details, creating a space that constantly feels open and airy.
Bathroom
As a special request from the home’s owner, Ashby designed a bathing sunroom. The ultimate in-home luxury, the space offers a 360 degree view of the outdoors without sacrificing privacy. The tub details! The sunny bathroom features alternating glazed and unglazed tile.