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Historic Austin homes tour opens doors to 150 years of architecture

Peek inside stunning Austin homes designed by notable architects during this two-day tour in April.

March 27, 2025 • 
Morgan O’Neal
A cozy living room with eclectic decor featuring two coral-colored sofas facing each other, flanked by two cream-colored armchairs. The room has a white textured fireplace with decorative figurines and candles on the mantel. A glass coffee table sits in the center, covered with books and plants. The room is filled with colorful textiles, patterned rugs, and an array of artwork on the walls. Shelves along the right side are filled with books and various decorative items, while plants add a touch of greenery throughout the space. Natural light streams in through multiple windows

Step into this 1936 cottage located in the Old West Austin National Register Historic District.

Photo by Jenn Rose Smith

History buffs, interior design enthusiasts, and real estate aficionados will soon unite for a weekend of historic home-hopping during Preservation Austin’s 2025 Homes Tour.

The 32nd annual event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 26 + Sunday, April 27 and allows ticketholders to step into 10 private homes with roots dating back up to 150 years.

A white colonial-style home with a blue door and blue floral wreath. It has brick stairs leading to the front door with two lion statues on either side of the walkway. The green grass, hedges, and trees are vibrant.

You’re looking at one of 1,000+ homes built by local architect Edwin C. Kreisle.

Photo by Clay Grier

Featured homes include:

A modern living room with a neutral color palette, featuring a large beige leather sectional sofa adorned with a patterned throw pillow. The room has a sleek concrete fireplace with a metal accent, and floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors that lead to an outdoor patio. A wooden coffee table with a sculptural glass centerpiece is situated in front of the sofa. Two white armchairs are placed near a wooden sideboard, which holds decorative objects and books. A potted plant adds greenery, and textured floor cushions are scattered for additional seating. The room’s high ceiling features a row of clerestory windows, allowing natural light to fill the space.

Local architect Arthur Fehr, who constructed this Ridge Oaks Drive home for his family in 1949, graduated from UT Austin and worked on projects for the National Park Service.

Photo by Jenn Rose Smith

Early bird tickets are available for $45 through Monday, March 31, before tickets increase to $50. All proceeds support Preservation Austin’s mission.

Bonus: VIP tickets grant access to an exclusive party at south Austin’s Wisteria estate, and locals can also RSVP for a free walking tour celebrating John S. Chase‘s legacy.

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