R Builders

Jul 2013

Although this kitchen still had a few years left before it started to expire aesthetically, the homeowner was unhappy with both the layout and functionality of the space. The goals were to create a large island, move the cooktop to the area where the sink formally sat below a window. We set forth to redesign the kitchen with function being the most important aspect. The perfect work triangle was formed between the sink, which is now housed in the island next to a dishwasher on one side, and a trash bin on the other. Across from the sink we installed a 36" induction cooktop and to the left of this, the 48" Wolf Sub-Zero refrigerator. The dark-stained, European inset, shaker style, walnut cabinetry was designed to incorporate all drawers on the lower portions of the cabinetry and wall-to-ceiling doors on the upper portions of the cabinetry. The double ovens were also methodically placed where there once was a door to a walk-in pantry. The wall adjacent to the ovens was converted into pantry storage. Materials such as white quartz counter tops and blue grey 2" x 2" tile are the perfect complement to the dark stained walnut cabinetry. To add visually interest large spherical pendants were added above the island.

$90k

Austin, TX

Jan 2013

Via Media, was a whole-house remodel that consisted of remodeling the upstairs and downstairs area of the home. All spaces in the home were either cosmetically or fully remodeled. Special attention to the kitchen and master bathroom were given. The kitchen, though more or less functional was in need of TLC. Better use of the space was made by moving the range to the back wall of the kitchen allowing more workspace on the island. The sink and dishwasher remained in their respective places but the space where the refrigerator use to stand was replaced with pull-panty door which increased functionality in pantry storage. Special features in the kitchen that are not visibly seen are a pullout lift for the kitchen-aid mixer, drawer microwave, and spice racks on either side of the range. The materials selected reflected the clients' affinity for an industrial look. White quartz counter tops were used not only for their clean look but also for their durability. A white marble backsplash was installed to perfectly compliment the counter tops and give contrast to the dark-stained rift sawn own cabinetry. Long chrome hardware compliments the chrome Dornbracht faucet. Simple yet practical industrial lighting hangs above the island. The master bathroom at Via Media was equally in need of an over-haul. The client' s main goal was to remove the oversized unused jet tub and enlarge the shower area. The designer presented the idea of creating a shower with a drying area in the space where the tub once stood. The vanity area, formally an enclosed space with a fur-down as well was opened up giving each client his and her storage cabinets and fully utilizing the length of the given wall. The shower controls were positioned next to the drying area for ease of use. Materials such as Silverthorne limestone wrap all three side of the shower area and the back wall of the vanity area. The use of a light stone creates an open airy feeling. Black pebble quartz was used in the drying area for its non-slip advantages and on the vanity counter tops to create a spa like feeling and contrast. The cabinets were made of natural stained walnut, which compliments the satin nickel plumbing and hardware. The two spaces above garnered the most attention. The three additional bathrooms received new counter top, backsplashes, vanities, plumbing, lighting and tile. Additionally, the floors both upstairs were refinished and newly stained darker, and the floors downstairs received new tile. Blackthorn limestone was installed on the fireplace creating more drama to what was once a boring sheet rock.

$289k

Austin, TX

Feb 2014

Removed a load bearing wall in between kitchen and living area Added structural beams in ceiling to support roof and ceiling Re-designed kitchen cabinet layout Built a large island for stove and dining space Replaced windows in dining/kitchen/living area Re finished existing oak floors

Austin, TX

Jan 2014

Building the Willmann Cabin was a unique experience for us that we really enjoyed. The Cabin was designed by a retired architect with Page Southerland Page. The inspiration of the design was early Texas settlers. The site of this cabin is just up the hill from the original homestead built on the ranch in the early 1900's. That being said, the cabin have modern conveniences such as; on demand tank-less water heaters and a ductless mini-split AC system. Note the large open front porch and the ship-lap siding on the interior walls. Many artifacts of the original homestead have been found by Jay and well as a large collection of arrow heads.

Florence, TX

Oct 2013

When we set out to design a house for Barton Hills we had three main objectives. First, to have the architecture blend in with the neighborhood, second to provide a well-built house and lastly, to make it family friendly. To meet the first goal we looked towards the past and used A D Stenger, Mid-century modern design for inspiration. Stenger designed and built house in the Barton Hills area in the 1950. Second, we met with engineers and architects and used our experience to build a house that represents the best we could do within our budget. We put this house on 29 drilled piers. We had to drill from 14 to 22 feet deep to reach rock, we then had the project inspected and the concrete tested to ensure that we did all we could to start with a stable foundation. Other materials used are All Ultrex fiberglass windows by Marvin, a standing seam McElroy metal roof, custom cabinets made of walnut with pre-finished Birch interiors and Blume soft close guides. The exterior is James Hardi siding and 'Blue' Lueder stone from Lueder, Texas. We took deliberate steps to make the home energy efficient by using open cell foam insulation in the walls and the attic. Keeping all of the HVAC equipment and ductwork inside of the thermal envelope. All of the plumbing fixtures are water conscious. The home has two Rinai tankless water heaters. We are on a hill and we took steps to install retaining walls, drains and pipes, surface catch basin and contouring and berms to manage the drainage on the site. We also installed seamless gutters and downspouts to manage rainfall. Inside we have a large functional utility room and cubbies near the back door that provide storage for kid stuff and hooks for back packs. The kitchen, living and dining are open and family friendly to encourage interaction. There is good natural light and views among the trees which provides a connection to the outdoors and a large covered back deck that is not only a place to relax, but also shade for the doors and windows from the afternoon sun. The garage is large enough for two cars plus additional storage. There is even an outside shower for convenience and lifestyle. Being a home builder is an honor and a responsibility. We worked hard to be responsible and enjoyed building this home.

Austin, TX

Jun 2013

Michael Cowan with Haddon+Cowan Architecture designed an addition over an existing garage for a client in Davenport Ranch Austin Tx. The addition was a multipurpose room for family entertainment (movie night), a guest bedroom room (Murphy Bed), small office and guest bath. The office was small, but functional with built in desk, shelves and task lighting. A well placed window also brought in natural light and made the office feel larger. The family room had a vaulted ceiling, well placed windows which coordinated well with furnishings. Lastly, the Murphy bed and guest bath provided the space for guests when needed. Michael did a lot with a little on this project and it was our pleasure to be involved in the construction.

Austin, TX

Jul 2012

Home remodel in Spicewood Texas

Spicewood, TX

Jun 2012

This remodel was a renovation of an existing house. The kitchen, master bath were completed gutted and new paint and flooring were installed throughout the house. In addition, the house had a 3-tier deck that had signs of structural failure that we pointed out to the home owner. We suggested that the owner seek the advice of a structural engineer and a new deck addition was designed and built. The deck was 3 tiers looking over the Great Hills golf course and the top section had a standing seam metal roof. Some of the finishes included: Milgard windows and doors, Cesarstone counter tops and Lunada Bay tiles, Antico split face Onyx and 12 x 24 tiles ripped and installed in a vertical off set pattern. The result was turning a traditional 1980's home into a modern home with a contemporary look and feel. Interior design by Allison Jaffe Interior Design LLC

Austin, TX

Apr 2011

Home remodel

Austin, TX