Round Top Guide: Austin Designer Christi Hay Shares the Best Vendors, Venues and Hidden Gems

Round Top has had quite the resurgence in popularity over the past few years — from celebrity sightings to glamorous accommodations popping up left and right. But for locals and those who have been part of the Round Top community for decades, the essence of the town and its identity remains true.

“We’re all one big family in Round Top,” says Christi Hay, Austinite and owner of Hay There, a business that specializes in turning vintage textiles into handmade one-of-a-kind pillows, eclectic furnishings, lighting and decor from primitive to post-modern — all with an eye for style, color and fun.

“We’ll do big family dinners with all the vendors, or we help each other out if someone is short of an item,” adds Hay. “This is the true side of Round Top that many don’t see when they just pop in for a show or weekend.”

Hay observes that while most visitors tend to gravitate toward the same popular spots, Austinites are more inclined to seek out and support spots that may be off the beaten path.

Supporting local makers

“No one supports local like Austin does,” says Hay. “Austinites come out to the fields, and they want to try other places than the Dallasites or Houstonians do. It’s just a more authentic experience — the quirky, weird and the fun side to the town.”

Growing up overseas in a military family, Hay was introduced to antiquing at a young age as a way to furnish the home. Later, after being introduced to Round Top through a friend, she launched her business there with her mom as a way to clear out their storage units of European treasures.

“I love fun textiles, tapestries, finding French items from the fields or a DIY project gone wrong,” says Hay. “Basically, there are 100,000 antiques, and we’re all just exchanging them back and forth. It always surprises me who comes in and buys, which I love. I’m constantly learning.”

For those looking to experience the best of Round Top from a local’s point of view, here is Hay’s guide from vendors to hot spots and everything in between:

Venues

Bader Ranch: Cyril Clerc, Hay’s friend, leases a majority of this venue. You’ll find more than 10,000 square feet of fine European antiques, mid-century modern furnishings, luxury fashion and a four-course meal every night during shows. This is said to be quintessential Round Top scenery.

Box Road: This antique furniture and design store specializes in both modern and vintage furniture and is owned by two friends, Michael Ouellette and Donnie Volkart.

La Petite Dame: This is Hay’s all-time favorite place in Round Top, where she says you’ll find the best people. She notes that it’s a true hidden gem and a great place to host a party.

Vendors

Attic Turnovers: According to Hay, Walter Furpahs is “the coolest guy that no one knows!” Come here at Excess Two for large-scale lighting, fun art and funky furniture. Hay also notes that Attic Turnovers supplies goods to many of the bars and restaurants throughout Austin and San Antonio.

Period Modern: Find the best Mid-Century Modern items at Period Modern in Excess Two, including imports from Europe and South America. According to Hay, it’s hard to beat their inventory of modern design artifacts anywhere else in Texas.

Hay There: Of course, Hay’s own business had to make the list. She’d love to see you at Blue Hills or Excess Two to find some unique pieces that match your style.

Makers and designers

Ester Gamez: She is an Austin-based creator of often witty, vintage antique and bespoke jewelry.

Kneaded Fashion: Owner and craftswoman Jenn Taillefumier repurposes military jackets and Hermès scarves into one-of-a-kind jackets and more.

Merrilee McGehee Design: This interior designer sources from Round Top and is incredibly active in the local community.

Fun places to go in Round Top

Ellis Motel: Ellis is self-proclaimed “the best little dive bar in Texas” for a reason. Here you’ll find an eclectic mix of art and furniture for sale, with drinks to boot.

Rancho Pillow: This blissful and serene 20-acre retreat is only two miles from the fields. Enjoy a heated saltwater wading pool and other outdoor activities like croquet. Even if you’re not staying there as an overnight guest, you can swing by for dinner or events.

Round Top Brewing: Owned by two Austinites, this spot is a fantastic place to kick back, relax and enjoy live music. The brewery has also won awards for mixology and features an incredible menu.

For even more advice, browse roundtop.com. On your next visit, also be sure to stop by The Halles for a curated selection of furniture, art and fashion vendors, and one-of-a-kind events.

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