Stylish new East Austin contemporary asks $799K

The infill residences that have been popping up in Central East Austin for some time now can be hit-and-miss. Some don’t bother to blend well with surrounding homes in the neighborhood; others make the thrift of their materials and the lack of inspiration behind their designs all too obvious, to the point where their builders start to seem interchangeable.

The builder of this home just east of Huston-Tillotson University can sometimes fall into the latter category, but in this case, the conscientious and careful design by award-winning local firm Un.Box Studio elevates it to a more remarkable level. The two-story frame home is clad in medium-toned, vertical cedar siding and concrete horizontal blocks painted a contrasting black. The building’s mass is complemented by oversized windows and a second-story deck with a perforated-steel railing that lightens the its immediate visual impact. As a result, 2,356-square-foot home nestles gracefully into its central-city block.

The open-plan first floor has polished concrete floors. The kitchen features silestone counters on its island/breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and custom maple cabinets.

Large upper and lower windows and doors look out on to a fenced, private, first-floor deck.

The home has three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. The master bathroom has a garden tub and separate, walk-in shower.

Upstairs floors are wood, and a living area on the second floor opens on to another deck.

• 1916 East 11th Street [Newcastle Homes]