2400 Harris Blvd, Austin, TX 78703

A sense of history, coupled with a love of design, defines the spirit of Keith House, a designated historical sight in Austin's venerated and coveted Pemberton Heights neighborhood. A long, wide covered front porch leads to a modern glass and metal front door and a bronze medallion forever marking this home as an important part of Austin's architectural history. Designed originally in 1933 for the sister of noted architect, William D. Anderson, the home was built on this site to take advantage of the Capitol view. Although the view is long since blocked by growth and progress, its proximity to the urban energy of Austin's city center remains a particular asset in this prime location. Once inside the gates that surround the property, graceful landscaping shaded by huge, mature oaks provides a secluded stage for dinners or drinks under a covered pergola that seats 12, with brick walls on 3 sides and a fireplace at one end. This outdoor haven, wired for music, invites both grand and intimate gatherings under the canopy of trees. Immaculate, sunlit rooms inside are spacious, comfortable and inviting. Rich, stained wood floors throughout the house anchor rooms with carefully crafted moldings, cased openings and bookcases harkening back in time and painted in tones of ivory and white to keep the atmosphere light and modern. Two large living areas on the first floor provide space for entertaining or peaceful relaxation. Window coverings of shades or plantation shutters have been professionally selected and perfectly complete each room. The kitchen has been expanded from the original design, with brilliant white glass-front cabinets and ivory, white and gray granite counters. A gas, six-burner commercial style stove sits below a custom vent hood. A farmhouse double pulley pendant marries old and new while lighting the work space of a large island flanked by a built-in refrigerator and a separate wine fridge. A small office retreat off the kitchen is as inviting as the larger rooms with glass doors leading to the outside. In the entry, a winding staircase makes for a sweeping and lovely route upstairs toward two spacious bedrooms, both with doors that open to balconies. The master bath is filled with light and features white marble counters, a claw foot tub, a separate glass shower and marble baseboards. The second bedroom works as another master adjoining its own spacious bath with black and white basketweave tile floors and soft green trim. Taking ownership of this home fulfills a love of architecture and an attachment to our now bustling city. Austin may have expanded and grown up around this magnificent piece of history, but Keith House has been designed and updated to maintain a private, gated garden setting that defies time and lets progress sweep by while providing a stately, peaceful and comfortable retreat from this very, very busy city.