Austin, Texas is one of the fastest growing cities in America. Texas’ capital city has a diverse mix of cultures, and history is still alive and well, as many residents aim to preserve the “Old Austin.” Festivals and events are held throughout the year to showcase the city and its old Southern charm. The city is also a growing hub for tech and biotech companies.
Austin’s population grows steadily every year, as do its housing rates. According to Zillow, house prices range from $195k to $50M. The city’s home styles are varied, but the most common are farmhouse and Tuscan. Since Austin is a growing commercial city, there is an influx of modern interpretations of these styles, catering to the younger generations settling in the area.
This article has compiled the best custom home builders in Austin, allowing every homeowner to choose the best style to fit their lifestyle. These contractors are based in Austin and the surrounding areas, and have been evaluated on their craftsmanship, membership in various associations, customer service, and accolades. All of these contractors have won awards for their stunning homes, and their distinctive styles are highlighted as well.
If you are thinking about building a custom home, we recommend checking each builder’s license with the local licensing board, speaking to past clients, and using our bidding system to get competitive quotes from at least 3 contractors. Getting multiple bids is the best way to ensure you get a fair price and that bids include the complete scope of work. On the other hand, if you want to learn more about the cost of building a custom home in Austin, check out our cost guide article.
Integrity Builders LP
5112 Avispa Way, Austin, TX 78738
Intricate stone-clad walls anchor this Tuscan home on Escavera Cove. Brick archways lead into a front courtyard with a wall fountain by the main entry. The arched passages continue inside all the way to the backyard pool. A wood-beamed vaulted ceiling opens up the great room. The living room is warmed by a white mantel herringbone tile fireplace. There’s a lot of space to dine on the six-seater dark wood dining set as well as the eat-in peninsula bar and center island in the white cabinet kitchen. The spacious master bedroom has its own sitting area by the arched windows. The claw-foot tub also sits in front of an arched window at the end of the two long vanities in the master bath. Patterned blue tiles accentuate the white-tile glass-walled double shower. There’s also a home gym with a view of the surrounding foliage and a covered patio by the pool.
This home was built by Integrity Builders, a boutique custom home builder based in Austin. University of Houston alumnus President Byron Ehlert’s Electrical Engineering background and experience as a supervisor and project manager bring a precision-oriented and methodical approach to construction that results in energy-efficient homes.
Pillar Custom Homes
14905 Calaveras Dr., Austin, TX 78717
Pillar Custom Homes was established by Master Builder Michael Cohen, who has over 25 years of experiences in homebuilding. Cohen’s knowledge of the craft continues to grow, as he personally oversees every project. Cohen wants his firm to grow as a green builder; the firm has received certifications from the Austin Energy Green Building Program, the National Association of Builders Green Building Certification Program, and the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). The firm also creates stunning modern homes, which are often featured in the Parade of Homes. Furthermore, the firm has received a 2013 American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and four 2012 Parade of Homes awards.
The firm’s Parade of Homes entry is a modern interpretation of a Farmhouse home. The vertical lines of the home give an elegant contrast to the curved roof. Additionally, the marble pattern with stone accents gives a rustic touch to the home.
Arbogast Custom Homes
2121 Lohmans Crossing Rd. Ste 504-212, Lakeway, TX 78734
Tod Arbogast established Arbogast Custom Homes in 2005 with the goal of providing a unique home for every homeowner in Central Texas. For this reason, the firm only builds a limited number of homes per year, as Arbogast wants to be personally involved with each project. Besides creating one-of-a-kind homes, Arbogast Custom Homes also takes the extra mile to make sure that all of its projects are eco-friendly. All of these building principles have allowed the firm to succeed; it has won many accolades throughout its existence. These awards include nine 2018 Max awards, such as Custom Builder of the Year, and Seven 2016 Max awards including Best Custom Home.
The firm’s farmhouse style is typical of Austin architecture, but what sets Arbogast Custom Homes apart is its modern interpretation. This home was featured in the 2017 Austin Home Builders, and it stood out in the competition because the often simple farmhouse was given a more modern and sophisticated interpretation. The grander execution might seem intimidating, but the firm ensured that it still incorporated the homey rustic themes found in farmhouse homes.
Verde Builders
2931 E 12th St. Unit 102, Austin, TX 78702
Established in 2009, Verde Builders is one of the most innovative builders in Austin. With the help of its SmartHouse Design, the firm’s custom homes are made with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring convenience and sustainability to every client. In an interview with Modern Architecture and Design Society, founder Daniel Reeves noted that these luxury features are offered because the firm aims to make homes that are worthy of an investment. These luxury features are not just for homeowner’s enjoyment, but also for practical use. In addition, Verde Builders always ensures that its SmartHouse Design is aesthetically pleasing; this has gained the attention of many publications, including the Wall Street Journal and Austin Business Journal, which hailed the firm as Top Custom Home Builder from 2015 to 2017.
One of the firm’s most famous homes is an iPad-controlled Home that was featured by the Wall Street Journal. Homeowner Savan Kotecha is a music producer who wanted a tech-friendly home that perfectly suits his lifestyle. With the help of the SmartHouse Design, Kotecha now has the ability to control music in every room of his house at his fingertips.
Silverton Custom Homes
18592 FM 1431, Jonestown, TX 78645
Founded by Mike Grimm, a seasoned Texan builder with over 40 years of experience, Silverton Custom Homes is one of the pioneers of luxury home building in Austin. Since its establishment in 1993, the firm has built a reputation on its timeless designs and old fashioned integrity. These designs are regulars in the annual Austin Home Builders Association (HBA) MAX Awards Gala along with being showcased at the HBA’s Parade of Homes. The firm has also garnered the attention of the Southern Living Custom Home Builder Program, an exclusive program that selects 100 of the best home builders in the South. Furthermore, the firm has received 12 MAX awards from 2011 to 2017 and was named Southern Living Magazine builder of the year in 2013.
Most of the firm’s award-winning projects are designed to maximize the surroundings and capitalize on lake views and lakefront settings. What sets Silverton apart is how it tastefully executes the detailed stonework common to the Austin area. This 2012 MAX award-winning home shows how the firm’s stonework ties together with the surrounding landscape, giving the home a very picturesque country charm found only in the South.
Eppright Homes
13301 Galleria Circle Ste. B175, Austin, TX 78738
Eppright Homes has been raising the bar for Austin’s custom home building industry since its establishment by Russell Eppright in 1995. The firm’s high standard is not confined to design alone; it is also known for having stellar customer service that ensures that every client has an enjoyable experience. The firm’s quality service truly speaks for itself, and it was named the Top Custom Residential Builder by the Austin Business Journal for 15 years in a row.
The firm’s 2015 HBA Parade of Homes entry is a modern home with rustic stone and wood accents. Aptly titled the Stratford Treehouse, log designs can be found in every corner of the home, from the exposed log walls of the porch to the outdoor wooden jacuzzi. In addition, the open floor plan of the home gives a cozy feel and is emphasized by the picturesque view of lush greenery.
RRS Design Build
1921 Lohmans Crossing Rd, Ste. 100, Austin, TX 78734
Established in 1998 by husband-and-wife team Cara and Randy Stringer, RRS Design Build creates unique custom homes ranging from townhouses to dog mansions. The couple uses their different backgrounds in construction and architecture to make standout homes in Austin and the surrounding areas. The design-build firm completes stunning remodels and new home construction for both homeowners and charitable causes. The firm’s most memorable project was constructing a multi-dog household for the annual Austin Barkitecture—an innovative charitable event that auctions unique dog houses for a cause. The firm’s custom homes are also award-winning standouts; this year, its projects have won two Texas Association of Builders (TAB) Star Awards and a National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) Regional award.
The photo pictured is a perfect example of the firm’s unique custom homes. The homeowners wanted a modern cabin tucked away from the city. RRS Design Build created a contemporary escape with interior walls lined with Alder trees.
Katz Builders
7901 Southwest Parkway 12, Austin, TX 78735
Since 1982, Katz Builders has been continuously reinventing the complexities of Austin’s homebuilding scene. Due to his vision for design, building and remodeling high-performing homes as well as his commitment to the industry, the firm’s founder, Joel B. Katz, is one of the most recognized builders in the state. In order to ensure that his team continues to build at the highest standards, Katz encourages each of this team members to continue education programs from NARI, NAHB, and the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA). The team’s stellar customer service has been highlighted in a number of awards, including the Hanley Wood Custom Builder Magazine Pace Setter Award for Excellence in Customer Satisfaction and the Pulse of the City Customer Service Award for six consecutive years.
In its 36 years of experience, the design-build firm has mastered a wide range of styles, including Modern, Cape Cod, Craftsman, Spanish, and Farmhouse. In this pictured 5 STAR Energy modern Shoal Creek home, Katz Builders demonstrates its ability to design and build high-performing, energy efficient, and sustainably built homes. The expansive windows bring light and natural beauty into the home, while the hardwood floors were reclaimed and repurposed from the site’s original home. The home also features clever mechanisms, such as a copula that siphons out hot air and cycles in cool air from the exterior.
Four Square Builders
1802 W. 6th St. Ste B, Austin, TX 78703
Since its establishment in 2004, Four Square Builders has strived to deliver high-quality homes with the help of some of the best architects in the state. Its determination is reflected in the modern floor plans, all created with an artistic execution in mind. Managing Director Wesley Wigginton also ensures that his firm’s projects are sustainable and meet the LEED and United States Green Building Council policies. Wigginton’s 30 years of experience in construction have helped the firm gain popularity in many prestigious home building organizations. The firm’s skill has also earned it many accolades from the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin, including two Custom Builder of the Year awards.
Few general contractors outsource their architectural teams, but Four Square Builders does this to guarantee a seamless combination of art and home construction. The Oohla Bean Bed and Breakfast is a perfect example of how art makes homes more interesting. The firm created six modern suites that have stone-lined walls and crisp white interiors. The sculpture in the center is a tasteful design element, lending a creative touch to the overall appearance.
Sterling Custom Homes
1310 R.R. 620 South, Ste B-200, Austin, TX 78734
With over 140 homes built in almost three decades of service, Sterling Custom Homes is one of the most decorated firms in the state. Founder Duke McDowell has dedicated his life to homebuilding, bringing success in the form of completed projects and 142 awards. The firm has also created a unique and efficient organizational tool called The Sterling Cookbook. This book has the recipe for the perfect home and contains tailor-made instructions that will help the homeowner understand all of the homebuilding processes. This book is a pioneering tool in the homebuilding industry and a testament to the firm’s success.
The firm matches the homeowner with the most well-suited local architect. A majority of the firm’s clientele are from Austin, which reflects in its projects; the designs feature mainly grand farmhouse and modern Spanish homes. This white Spanish home is a polished project, showcasing the expertise of the firm and its versatility in craftsmanship.
Olson Defendorf
3355 Bee Cave Road, Ste 501 Austin, TX 78746
Established in 2007, Olson Defendorf was founded by two builders, both experienced in multi-million dollar projects, who wanted to take building into their own hands. Eric Olson and Troy Defendorf met in 1999 as young builders. After years of experience, the two founded Olson Defendorf as a product of their experiences partnered with a technological advantage. The firm boasts its innovative construction processes like The Cloud. This is a cloud-based program allowing any client to access and manage the entire building process from the convenience of their computer or iPads. Besides its stellar customer service, the firm is also a consistent MAX award winner. Its most memorable award is the 2018 Best One-of-a-Kind Home.
Dwell magazine featured the firm’s LBJ Lakehouse—a modern home with bright red walls, inspired by the site’s original red cottage, which stand out against the adjacent lake. The home’s overlooking windows are perfect for the scenic view, and also make the home’s floor plan feel more spacious.
David Wilkes Builders
5450 Bee Caves Ste 4B, Austin, TX 78746
David Wilkes Builders was established by David and Catherine Wilkes, a prominent building couple in Austin. The couple are both active NARI board members, who take pride in their bespoke creations. They believe that elegance is produced by hard labor, which is why the firm’s projects are all completed by hand. The firm ensures that every step of the building process is undertaken with extra care, whether this means a simple brush stroke or carefully constructing the foundation. The firm’s hard work and dedication have landed it a spot in the Southern Living Custom Home Builder Program and on the latest Luxe magazine Gold List. David Wilkes Builders has also won prestigious national and local awards, including Remodeler of the Year awards from both the Texas Association of Builders and the HBA.
Many of the contractors featured in the list incorporate a modern approach with the farmhouse and Mediterranean styles commonly found in Austin. David Wilkes Builders goes outside of the box by introducing very modern home designs. The firm’s projects all showcase classic features of the modern home, such as geometric lined roofs and elevation changes.
Jauregui Architecture Interiors Construction
3660 Stoneridge Rd., Bldg. A-102 Austin, TX 78746
Jauregui Architecture Interiors Construction was founded by one of the most respected architects and builders in Texas. Luis Jauregui, FAIA, served as President of Austin AIA in 2017, was recognized as Outstanding Alumni of the Texas A&M School of Architecture in 2017 and honored as a Fellow of The College of the American Institute of Architects 2017. Jauregui and his professional team of architects, interiors designers, and construction managers are recognized for exemplary design-build in Austin. Jauregui Architecture Interiors Construction sets itself apart with its concierge turnkey services including architecture, interiors, construction, and whole-house furnishings. Jauregui’s designs range from Classic European to Modern Transitional.
The pictured Tuscan Transitional home is a perfect example of the firm’s focus on exceptional design and use of regional materials. Emphasizing optimum flow and lifestyle, Jauregui creates masterful generational homes for its discriminating clients. Jauregui provides design-build services throughout central Texas and draws from among the best craftsmen in the state.
Risher Martin Fine Homes
4524 Burnet Rd. Austin, TX 78756
Award-winning firm Risher Martin is one of the most trusted builders in Austin because of its meticulous pre-building process. The firm’s guidelines are called “By The Book” because every step of the firm’s process is backed up by both the architect and builder. “The Book” also contains all the necessary information for the client to fully understand the firm’s building process, ensuring the homeowner that they will not have to undergo redesign after hiring Risher Martin. This process is admired and appreciated by many homeowners, and President Jeremy Martin was invited to the Fine Homebuilding Podcast to explain the approach. The firm has also gained the attention of many organizations and has received many accolades, including the 2018 Texas Custom Builder of the Year award and the 2016 Fred Case Remodeling Entrepreneur of the Year award.
Risher Martin Fine Homes designs unique homes. This U-V house was designed to have a Palm Springs flair, so the firm found a site that enabled the home to have an optimized solar orientation, stimulating breezes and allowing vegetation to grow.
Jenkins Design-Build
3813 Juniper Trace 100, Austin, TX 78738
Honesty and integrity are the values that retired Chief Sergeant Paul Jenkins learned during his time in the Air Force. He subsequently realized that he wanted to impart these values to his community members by being a part of their homes. He established Jenkins Design-Build in 1992 and led the firm for six fruitful years until passing it down to his son Shan. Under Shan’s leadership, the firm has rebranded into a luxury home builder and has won over 100 awards, including the prestigious Fred Case Remodeling Entrepreneur of the Year award. The firm has also been included on Qualified Remodeler Magazine’s Top 500 list.
One of the firm’s most recognized projects is this luxurious lakeside home, which has won several “Best of Texas” awards. This is one of the most complex projects completed by the firm, as the building is located entirely in a floodplain. Originally a retirement home, Jenkins Design-Build transformed the building into a 10,000 square foot luxury waterfront home.
Zbranek and Holt Custom Homes
2220 Lakeway Blvd Ste 100, Austin, TX 78734
Zbranek and Holt Custom Homes was founded by two of the most sought-after builders in the industry, Steve Zbranek and Tony Holt. Zbranek is a past president of the San Antonio and Austin Home Builders Associations and served two terms as Chairman of the Board of the Lake Travis Chamber of Commerce. Tony Holt is also a past president of the Highland Lakes Builders Association. The firm has gained recognition because of its founders, but also because it is one of the few firms in the area with the Luxury League certification. Steve Zbranek is an inductee into the Austin Builder Hall of Fame and was twice named National Master Builder of the Year. Zbranek and Holt Custom Homes has also received numerous building awards, including six Custom Builder of the Year awards, three Austin Business Journal Custom Builder of the Year awards, and a Texas Custom Builder of the Year Award. Despite the firm’s prestigious accolades, it guarantees fixed pricing throughout the entire building process. The initial price given to the client will not change except due to upgrades and changes requested by the client.
The firm’s status as a luxury builder means that it only builds large custom homes. The projects include Modern, Transitional, Mediterranean and Texas Farmhouse designs. This Modern Luxury Home overlooks Lake LBJ. It has an elevated and open floor plan with expansive glass features, designed to capture the lake and hill country views. The home has an elegant design and includes modern features including a state of the art media room, a wine cellar and a resort-style infinity pool and spa plus a custom boat and jet ski dock.
How can I find home builders near me?
Read our latest articles on the best custom home builders across Texas. If you don’t see your city below, just let us know – we are happy to create a tailored recommendation list just for you.
Custom home builders in Corpus Christi
Custom home builders in El Paso
Custom home builders in Houston
Custom home builders in San Antonio
About Our Rankings
This list takes a range of ranking criteria into consideration, including but not limited to: work history, customer satisfaction, awards and recognition, geographic area of work, cost, building permits, and clientele. We spent over 40 hours researching local contractors before calculating the final ranking for this post. If there is additional information about your business that could affect these rankings, please fill out this form and we will take it into consideration
Get Bids For Your Build
If you are thinking about building a custom home, we recommend checking each builder’s license with the local licensing board, speaking to past clients, and using our bidding system to get competitive quotes from at least 3 contractors. Getting multiple bids is the best way to ensure you get a fair price and that bids include the complete scope of work.
