The unique property is hidden from the street and you must walk through a gate to experience what Stead describes as “Austin modern urbanism with hints of art deco and a Spanish influence.” And that description nails it. The open floor plan that connects the vast rectilinear living, dining and kitchen area overlooks a saltwater pool and side courtyard. Almost the entire second floor is home to the master bedroom. As a long-time downtown dweller, these open, light-filled spaces are important to van Heuven in any new home.

Photograph by James Bruce.

The duo shares a love of glamorous, modern design, but they are also drawn to a coastal influence as they have spent summers together in Martha’s Vineyard, where Stead has a home, and in Nantucket where Van Heuven spent summers growing up. “Tracey [Stead] and I basically communicate by ESP when working together,” van Heuven shared. “Not only is she my best friend, but she also makes the design process seamless and so much fun. Part of the reason I am always up for buying and selling homes is because of how rewarding the process is working with her.”

The open floor plan is van Heuven’s favorite part of the home, while Stead loves the Moroccan tile backsplash.

If Stead had to pick a favorite spot in the house, it would be the kitchen. The dark hues of the walnut cabinets and Moroccan backsplash is a beautiful contrast to the neutral palette of the rest of the house. “It is sparse and clean, but so functional when it comes to cooking and entertaining, especially given that it opens to the living space.”

Even though this house is the first one van Heuven has lived in that isn’t within walking distance to Stead’s, she jokes that she tolerates it since the home is perfect for him and his lifestyle. She says: “We will grow old together as best friends and spend the rest of our lives intertwined.”

The design of each room brings together the duo’s love of modern with a nautical influence.