16
Texas Association of Builders
July/August 2015
Each year, HGTV builds and furnishes a
"Smart Home" to be given away to a lucky
sweepstakes winner. Last year, HGTV
gave away a charming, high-tech home
in Nashville. This year, it’s a modern
farmhouse-style home that’s 2,300-square-
foot in the Zilker Park area. It features
high-tech components and gives the
homeowner better control over energy use,
security, interior climate and lighting.
Austin was at the top of HGTV’s list for
many reasons, says Jack Thomasson, an
HGTV professional house planner.
"You can't find a city with a better
combination of emerging technologies,
exciting nightlife, great food and a
welcoming culture that attracts more
and more people each year," Thomasson
explains. "To be able to build this new
home in a thriving neighborhood close to
downtown Austin puts it in the center of
everything 'smart' that the city has to offer."
The three-bedroom, three-bath modern
farmhouse was constructed by Austin
builder Riverside Homes and is designated
as an "Austin Energy Green Building." An
open concept kitchen and living space
is surrounded by windows designed
with special features meant for blocking
sunlight and reducing heat, while still
providing plenty of natural light. Upstairs
features even more windows and multiple
skylights that operate remotely, plus a
vaulted media loft. Importantly, there’s a
wet bar in the master bedroom.
Because the home was built in the historic
Zilker Park neighborhood, construction
complied
with
the
"McMansion"
ordinances, which were designed by the
City of Austin to minimize the impact of
construction and protect the character of
Austin’s older neighborhoods.
The fully furnished home is only part of
the grand prize package valued at more
than $1 million. The lucky winner will
also receive $100,000 provided by national
mortgage lender Quicken Loans, and a
2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class to park in the
beautiful driveway.
Austin Is Host of the HGTV 2015 Smart Home
H
GTV chose Austin, Texas, as the location of its third-
annual HGTV Smart Home. The home is conveniently
located near Zilker Park and outdoor recreation venues
and a short 15-minute drive from downtown Austin.
