Lakefront Austin Home Blends Southern Charm and Modernist Style

This 6,000-square-foot residence on Lake Austin embodies a classic California modernist feel with a touch of local flair.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Designer Elisabeth McCabe and her family renovated their lakefront home in Austin, Texas, creating a 6,000-square-foot residence that blends modernist architecture with Southern hospitality. Inspired by the work of Italian architect Gio Ponti, the home features floor-to-ceiling windows, crisp lines, and warm, natural materials that seamlessly integrate the indoor and outdoor spaces. McCabe worked closely with her trusted architect, Michael Landrum, to navigate the city's rigorous permitting process and build a home that could serve as a forever family retreat, where kids and grandkids can enjoy the lake and all that Austin has to offer.

Why it matters

This project showcases how thoughtful design can create a harmonious balance between modern aesthetics and a home's natural surroundings, even in a challenging lakefront setting. McCabe's approach of blending classic California modernism with local Austin flair highlights how designers can honor a region's unique character while still achieving a sleek, timeless look.

The details

McCabe and her family wanted a home that could serve as a permanent lakeside retreat, so they started from scratch on a prime piece of lakefront property. Working with architect Michael Landrum, they created a 6,000-square-foot residence with five bedrooms, five bathrooms, and two half-baths. The home's modernist design is inspired by the work of Italian architect Gio Ponti, featuring clean lines, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a palette of warm, natural materials like stone and rattan. To navigate the city's rigorous permitting process for building on the lake, McCabe leaned on her experience and commitment to protecting the local environment. Inside, the home blends modernist architecture with Southern charm, incorporating sentimental art, vintage furniture, and collected pieces that reflect the owners' personal style.

  • McCabe's family has enjoyed the Lake Austin area for 25 years.
  • The home was built in 2026.

The players

Elisabeth McCabe

The co-founder of Ecco Design, a design firm based in Houston and Austin, who renovated the lakefront home for her family.

Michael Landrum

The architect who worked with McCabe to design the 6,000-square-foot modernist residence on Lake Austin.

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What they’re saying

“We wanted a place we could ultimately retire to, where kids and grandkids could come and enjoy the lake, and all that the city of Austin has to offer.”

— Elisabeth McCabe, Co-founder, Ecco Design (House Beautiful)

The takeaway

This lakefront home in Austin showcases how modernist design principles can be seamlessly integrated with a region's unique character and natural surroundings, creating a timeless and livable retreat that honors both architectural elegance and local charm.