Views of the Neighborhood – New Construction – Take Two

August 29, 2021 · by John W. Howell · in Views of the Neighborhood · 104 Comments

Hi gang. Today we are going back to the house under construction in the neighborhood. There has been some progress, and frankly, it has been a slow week in terms of events in Lakeway. We are being catered to brunch by the Launderette in Austin. Our entertainment is The Bangles.

Rainbow Bowl

beet hummus, quinoa, roasted carrots, sprouts, sesame, soft egg

Salmon Gravlax

sesame bagel, cream cheese, capers, tomato, red onion, sprouts

English Muffin Sammi

scrambled egg, deer creek cheddar, fennel sausage, avocado, romesco

Benny Toast

poached eggs, sauce aligot, braised greens, truffle hollandaise, toasted focaccia

Fried Chicken Sammie

coriander poblano slaw, pickles, challah

Plancha Burger

American cheese, special sauce, pickles, challah

The Americana

sunny eggs, oyster mushroom, roasted tomato, bacon, toast

Pork Shoulder Hash

potato, brussels sprouts, sunny eggs, salsa verde

Roasted Chicken Salad

bibb lettuce, radicchio, frisee, summer squash, pickled cucumber, soft egg, quinoa furikake, miso pear butter

Accompaniments

Potato Latkes creme fraiche, apple sauce

Bacon, Pork Sausage

Also, top-shelf drinks, wine, and VooDoo Ranger IPA

So, hop on the bus, and let’s go.

As a reminder, this is how the house looked the last time we were here.

Here is a similar shot of how it looks today. Notice the sliders and the Stucco toward the rear. The drywall is in.

Here is a shot of the right side. There is a rock wall being built.

We are now inside between the two sliders on the main floor. I guessed there would be a fireplace, and there it is

The kitchen with a mammoth island

Utility room.

The view is out of the main living area.

The primary bath and behind it a walk-in closet.

A door in the primary bedroom to the deck.

Bathroom on the lower level. I thought I would include this shot sine I like the window over the shower.

Lower level living area. The pool will be to the right through the sliders.

A lot of the rooms have pocket doors. Here is one example of a lower level bedroom which can be shut away by sliding the pocket door closed.

Here is a view of the left side. I included this so you can get an idea of the stucco work. I have a suspicion that the green part is going to be stone of some kind. We’ll just have to wait and see.

That is the tour. Grab some more food and listen to the Bangles. I hope you all have a great week.

Tags: author, books, Circumstances of Childhood, Eternal Road - The final stop, fiction favorites, His Revenge, John W. Howell Author, My GRL, Our Justice, The Contract with Gwen Plano, Views of the Neighborhood

104 comments

Jill Weatherholt · August 29, 2021 - 5:12 am ·

Things seem to be moving along rather slow, John. This must be a custom built home. Here, when a developer takes over some land, they slap up houses so fast you have to wonder about their craftsmanship. Great tour and tune! Wishing you and the family a peaceful Sunday and a not so manic Monday.

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 6:44 am ·
  
  Thank you, JIll. It is moving very slow for sure. There are some days when no one shows up at all. A lovely wish for Sundat and Monday. I wish the same for you as well.
  
  LikeLiked by 1 person
Darlene · August 29, 2021 - 5:36 am ·

What great views! We had pocket doors in our last place in Vancouver, I loved them. Thanks for the Bangels. We used to sing Manic Monday as we drove downtown in the carpool, at the top of our lungs!! Fun days. Happy Sunday to you and the dogs.

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 6:45 am ·
  
  Thank you, Darlene. I hope your Sunday is the best.😁
  
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Liz Gauffreau · August 29, 2021 - 5:49 am ·

Thank you for the tour, John! As Jill noted, the progress does seem to be a bit slow.

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 6:46 am ·
  
  Yes it is. I don’t think this house has been sold yet so they are not in a rush. 😁
  
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  1. Liz Gauffreau · August 29, 2021 - 10:27 am ·
    
    It’s developer building on spec?
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  2. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 12:25 pm ·
    
    I believe so. Hard to tell but the pace is so slow I’m thinking it to be true.
    
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Dan Antion · August 29, 2021 - 6:07 am ·

It looks like there is a lot of attention to detail being paid here. It’s going to be nice.

Breakfast is a little fancy for my tastes, I’ll grab something on the way home. Oh, what the heck, I’ll try a Salmon Gravlax.

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 7:06 am ·
  
  Good idea on the salmon.. Thanks, Dan. Yes I think the details are going to be nice.
  
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Joan Hall · August 29, 2021 - 6:08 am ·

The progress does seem slow. I’ll be interested to see the finished product. Still skeptical of that flat roof. 🙂

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 7:08 am ·
  
  I’m not fond of flat roofs either. I’ve never seen one that didn’t have a leak. Have a super Sunday, Joan.
  
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GP · August 29, 2021 - 6:24 am ·

Things aren’t moving very quickly with the house, but I hope it doesn’t take that long for my English Muffin Sammi and Bloody Mary to show up. I’m hungry!!

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 7:09 am ·
  
  Ready in a flash. Thanks, GP. 😁
  
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Gwen M. Plano · August 29, 2021 - 7:22 am ·

I hope you and yours have a wonderful day, John. Your construction photos look like my street — mostly unfinished homes without landscaping. For prospective homeowners, much patience is required. All the best. 😊

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 8:33 am ·
  
  I hope you have a great day as well, Gwen. Your new place is all developed right?
  
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  1. Gwen M. Plano · August 29, 2021 - 11:46 am ·
    
    Yes…and I’m counting the days, correction — the hours, until we move. 😁
    
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  2. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 12:22 pm ·
    
    I looked it up pn Zillow. Super place. Love the wall around it.
    
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The Hook · August 29, 2021 - 7:34 am ·

Thanks for the tour, John – and the tunes.

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 8:34 am ·
  
  Thanks for the visit, Hook. 😁
  
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Charles Yallowitz · August 29, 2021 - 9:07 am ·

Looks like a big job. Surprised you were able to go inside though.

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 12:38 pm ·
  
  As long as there are no doors I can.
  
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Pit · August 29, 2021 - 10:05 am ·

Here, around the corner, in Crabapple Grove [you saw my posting], new houses are shooting up much faster.
Have a great Sunday,
Pit

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 12:26 pm ·
  
  😁
  
  LikeLiked by 1 person
Debbie · August 29, 2021 - 10:13 am ·

We have pocket doors, and they really save on room. Of course, Monkey (and Dallas before him) figured out how to get a nose in if the door isn’t completely shut, so don’t count on much privacy! I’m not fond of that window over the shower. Even the Austin area can get cold at night, and that might make for some quick baths (then again maybe that’s the idea!). Thanks for updating us, John.

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 12:26 pm ·
  
  That is a good reason not to have one. I just like the light.
  
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Writer Lori · August 29, 2021 - 10:59 am ·

Just back from a visit to family in San Antonio & Boerne and astounded at the growth in the area. Lots of building going on. Looks like that’s gonna be a nice house with some fabulous views when it’s done… 🙂 Have a great Sunday, John.

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 12:24 pm ·
  
  Yes it is Lori. Boerne used to be in the sticks but not anymore. Glad you got to visit.
  
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  1. Writer Lori · August 29, 2021 - 12:46 pm ·
    
    I know, right?! The growth that has taken place in just the 7 years they have lived there is staggering….
    
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  2. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 8:03 pm ·
    
    😁
    
    LikeLike
Mae Clair · August 29, 2021 - 11:22 am ·

It looks like it’s going to have a ice open floor plan on the main floor, and that view is great!
Now I’ll unwind whit some roasted chicken salad and a drink. Nice down time before I hit Manic Monday for real!

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SD Gates · August 29, 2021 - 11:25 am ·

Looks very mid-century in design. Love pocket doors!!

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 12:23 pm ·
  
  I do too. We had them in our last place and loved them.
  
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coldhandboyack · August 29, 2021 - 11:43 am ·

I could Walk Like an Egyptian onto that deck and enjoy the view all day long.

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 12:23 pm ·
  
  Me too. I wonder if there will be a fridge out there. I hope so.
  
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Jan Sikes · August 29, 2021 - 12:19 pm ·

I can certainly see why they chose that spot! The view is spectacular!

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 12:21 pm ·
  
  Yes it is. There are some trees on other people’s lot that block it but overall pretty nice.
  
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D.L. Finn, Author · August 29, 2021 - 12:29 pm ·

Our cats think pocket doors are toys here. That is such a nice view and they are slowly moving along. Thanks for the tour.

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 12:40 pm ·
  
  Thank you, Denise.
  
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The Coastal Crone · August 29, 2021 - 12:54 pm ·

Great view! And that mammoth island is something.. I can imagine this as a contemporary style house – I could go for that. Thanks for brunch, John!

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 8:04 pm ·
  
  I know right. Thanks for going along, Jo. 😁
  
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D. Wallace Peach · August 29, 2021 - 6:07 pm ·

Wonderful view from that main room, John. The place looks spacious! Nice tour 🙂

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 8:08 pm ·
  
  Thank you, Diana. It is quite spacious.
  
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Baydreamer · August 29, 2021 - 6:19 pm ·

Great food and fun tour, John. It looks like it’ll be a nice house even though slow being built. That view from the main living area looks beautiful.

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1. John W. Howell · August 29, 2021 - 8:08 pm ·
  
  It is. Thanks, lauren.
  
  LikeLiked by 1 person
petespringerauthor · August 29, 2021 - 10:37 pm ·

Though not as handy as I’d like to be, I’m the type of guy who likes keeping up with construction projects. Great choice on the music today. What guy didn’t have a crush on Susannah Hoffs?

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1. John W. Howell · August 30, 2021 - 6:41 am ·
  
  Those with no heart didn’t have a crush on Susannah Hoffs I would guess. Thanks, Pete
  
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Becky Ross Michael · August 30, 2021 - 12:26 am ·

So interesting to see how this place is coming along!

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1. John W. Howell · August 30, 2021 - 6:59 am ·
  
  Slow but sure I would say.
  
  LikeLiked by 1 person
  1. Becky Ross Michael · August 30, 2021 - 7:23 am ·
    
    Seems that way.
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  2. John W. Howell · August 30, 2021 - 9:18 am ·
    
    😁
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
Teri Polen · August 30, 2021 - 7:01 am ·

Such a beautiful view, and I’d love to have a kitchen island that big. Thanks for the tour, John!

LikeLiked by 1 person
1. John W. Howell · August 30, 2021 - 9:15 am ·
  
  It is. I would like one like that as well. Thanks, Teri.
  
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robertawrites235681907 · August 30, 2021 - 10:52 am ·

This looks like a splendid house, John.

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1. John W. Howell · August 30, 2021 - 11:45 am ·
  
  I think it is too.
  
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OIKOS™- Art, Books & more · August 31, 2021 - 1:58 am ·

Reblogged this on OPENED HERE >> https:/BOOKS.ESLARN-NET.DE.

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1. John W. Howell · August 31, 2021 - 7:13 am ·
  
  😁
  
  LikeLike
OIKOS™- Art, Books & more · August 31, 2021 - 2:06 am ·

Nice insights! If its ready, it will become a wonderful living area. But such a permanent construction site in the neighborhood is annoying. I hope the acceptance by Lucy and Twiggy is at a good level. Indeed, they will have a wonderful view. Thanks for sharing the news, John! Enjoy a beautiful Tuesday! xx Michael

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1. John W. Howell · August 31, 2021 - 7:14 am ·
  
  You as well, Michael. Thank you. 😊
  
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OIKOS™- Art, Books & more · August 31, 2021 - 2:07 am ·

Aww, thanks for the wonderful remembrance on the Bangles. 😉 xx

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1. John W. Howell · August 31, 2021 - 7:14 am ·
  
  One of my favorites. 😊
  
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Books & Bonsai · August 31, 2021 - 4:37 am ·

This will be an amazing house and the view is to die for!

LikeLiked by 1 person
1. John W. Howell · August 31, 2021 - 7:16 am ·
  
  I think whoever buys this will be very happy. It’s going to be over $1M though.
  
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  1. Books & Bonsai · August 31, 2021 - 1:56 pm ·
    
    Worth every penny fif that view!
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  2. John W. Howell · August 31, 2021 - 2:57 pm ·
    
    That is true.
    
    LikeLike
  3. Books & Bonsai · September 1, 2021 - 3:02 am ·
    
    I cannot spell to save my life. This is the second typo this morning!
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  4. John W. Howell · September 1, 2021 - 6:50 am ·
    
    I usually have more than two so I think you are doing well compared to me.😊
    
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Resa · August 31, 2021 - 1:52 pm ·

I am so full from that food, and I don’t eat most of it.
No one could ever say they starved on one of your tours.
So, lovely deconstruction work! How long until it’s back to being a park?

LikeLiked by 1 person
1. John W. Howell · August 31, 2021 - 2:57 pm ·
  
  Virtual food is meant to be abused. No consequences. Here look at this 32 oz margarita. I’ll feel fine in the morning.
  
  LikeLiked by 1 person
  1. Resa · August 31, 2021 - 3:16 pm ·
    
    FAB!!!! I’ll have a tank of red wine!!!
    I’m going to get a paper straw!
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  2. John W. Howell · August 31, 2021 - 5:30 pm ·
    
    Here you are. Sorry about the packaging but it willtaste good. 🛢
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  3. Resa · August 31, 2021 - 9:13 pm ·
    
    Hahaha!
    Emojis need a wine cask…among many things.
    🍷to a cask!
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  4. John W. Howell · August 31, 2021 - 9:15 pm ·
    
    Yes a cask is needed. I’m tired of serving wine in a steel 50 gal barrel.
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  5. Resa · August 31, 2021 - 9:15 pm ·
    
    IKR!
    Who knows what was in it before?
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  6. John W. Howell · August 31, 2021 - 9:18 pm ·
    
    I think crude oil might alter the wine taste for sure.
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  7. Resa · August 31, 2021 - 9:20 pm ·
    
    What we need is oak crude oil drums!
    
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  8. John W. Howell · August 31, 2021 - 9:22 pm ·
    
    Great idea.
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  9. Resa · August 31, 2021 - 9:23 pm ·
    
    So there!
    That will make the wine taste better.
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  10. John W. Howell · September 1, 2021 - 6:48 am ·
    
    Not to mention that petrolium film on the top.🤣
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  11. Resa · September 1, 2021 - 11:23 am ·
    
    I’ll need a baguette for that! 🥖🛢
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  12. John W. Howell · September 1, 2021 - 2:13 pm ·
    
    Yes you will. Hold the butter of course.
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  13. Resa · September 1, 2021 - 3:44 pm ·
    
    Of course! Heavy sour cream will do!
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  14. John W. Howell · September 1, 2021 - 3:46 pm ·
    
    Some Lox maybe
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  15. Resa · September 1, 2021 - 3:54 pm ·
    
    Ah…. you are welcome to some, but as a veggie I’ll have some…. tomato slices!… And hummus!!!!! (I can never eat just one tub!)
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  16. John W. Howell · September 1, 2021 - 4:14 pm ·
    
    Okay hold the Lox. I’ll join you n Tomato slices and Hummus. I adore hummus and never have it. Can we throw a cucumber in the sour cream with a little sweet onion?
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  17. Resa · September 1, 2021 - 4:18 pm ·
    
    LOL!!! I’m making that at home tonight, in fact!!! OMG!!! I bought a sour dough with poppy seeds today. They were out out of baguettes. Is that ok?
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  18. John W. Howell · September 1, 2021 - 6:01 pm ·
    
    I’ll be right over. 😁
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  19. Resa · September 1, 2021 - 8:11 pm ·
    
    Remember to bring your bib… and tucker!
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  20. John W. Howell · September 1, 2021 - 9:04 pm ·
    
    Bib I understand. What is a tucker?
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  21. Resa · September 1, 2021 - 9:30 pm ·
    
    Bib & tucker is an old English expression. It means a man is dressed in formal attire.
    https://www.dictionary.com/browse/best-bib-and-tucker
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  22. John W. Howell · September 2, 2021 - 6:37 am ·
    
    Terrific. I love to learn new phrases. Got my Armani on. 😁
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  23. Resa · September 2, 2021 - 1:27 pm ·
    
    Ahh, bibbed and tuckered!
    
    LikeLiked by 2 people
  24. John W. Howell · September 2, 2021 - 2:01 pm ·
    
    Yes indeed. After is squeezed into it, I was tuckered.
    
    LikeLiked by 2 people
  25. Resa · September 2, 2021 - 2:05 pm ·
    
    Hahaha!
    
    LikeLiked by 2 people
  26. John W. Howell · September 2, 2021 - 2:08 pm ·
    
    😁
    
    LikeLiked by 2 people
circadianreflections · September 1, 2021 - 10:39 am ·

The view is wonderful. Thanks for sharing the updates and how it’s coming along.

LikeLiked by 1 person
1. John W. Howell · September 1, 2021 - 10:59 am ·
  
  Thaks for going along, Deborah.
  
  LikeLiked by 1 person
  1. circadianreflections · September 1, 2021 - 5:41 pm ·
    
    You’re welcome!
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  2. John W. Howell · September 1, 2021 - 6:02 pm ·
    
    😊
    
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Dale · September 1, 2021 - 3:42 pm ·

Thanks for the update, John. Man, that place is HUGE! Breakfast was absolutely delicious!

LikeLiked by 1 person
1. John W. Howell · September 1, 2021 - 3:46 pm ·
  
  I’m glad you liked it, Dale.
  
  LikeLiked by 1 person
  1. Dale · September 1, 2021 - 3:52 pm ·
    
    I did|
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
  2. John W. Howell · September 1, 2021 - 3:52 pm ·
    
    😁
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
Jennie · September 4, 2021 - 8:42 am ·

The house is enormous. Please keep us updated with photos.

LikeLiked by 1 person