Updated: Midcentury A.D. Stenger home hits market for $825K

[This article was originally published July 21. It has been updated with interior photographs and a few added sentences.]

Architectural preservation, or the lack thereof, has been the subject of much local hubbub lately. Not only has the general idea become a matter of debate—preservation is sometimes seen as one of several barriers to increasing central-city density and affordable housing—but the failure of a rare specimen of International Style architecture by local luminary Athur Fehr recently failed to make the grade as a city landmark.

We’re hoping this home by A.D. Stenger, one of Austin's most well-regarded and prolific midcentury modern architects, meets a better fate. An architect, builder, and developer, Stenger built more than 100 homes in Austin (many in the Barton Hills neighborhood where this one is located) and is sometimes compared to postwar California developer Joseph Eichler.

The home in question has been modified, with an addition by Central Texas architect David Voelter in 1980, but retains classic lines that make it easily recognizable as a Stenger.

Built in 1960, the split-level house is located on a wooded, quarter-acre lot in Barton Hills. At 2,237 square feet, it has four bedrooms and two bathrooms, as well as spacious living and dining rooms. A back patio and deck and private yard overlook views of the neighborhood.

While we (and the real estate agent) are still waiting on interior photos, we know Stenger fans would want to get the news and check out the exterior photos we do have access to in the meantime. Interior photos to follow shortly; watch this space.

Interior photos reveal a need for a deep renovation, but include some delightful 1960s features that define its style.

The home sits nestled among mature trees in a classic Austin neighborhood with hilltop views.

• 1900 Airole Way [Rob Kellog, Realty Austin]