Photos by: An Indoor Lady
Twenty years ago, when Austin was just beginning its evolution from quirky college town to booming creative hub, a handful of remodelers decided to open their clients’ doors to the public. Their goal was simple: show people what was possible when vision, craftsmanship, and trust came together to reimagine the places we call home.
Fast-forward two decades, and the city has changed in ways no one could have predicted. But one thing has remained constant—the annual Austin NARI Remodeled Homes Tour has continued to grow, inspire, and connect homeowners with the city’s most talented remodelers. This September, the tour celebrates its 20th anniversary with more style, energy, and community spirit than ever before.
From September 20–21, design lovers and curious neighbors alike will step inside 14 beautifully remodeled homes across Austin, each telling a story of creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. Whether it’s a dated ranch brought into the modern era, a family home expanded to meet changing needs, or a historic gem restored to its original glory, the tour offers something that glossy magazines and Pinterest boards simply can’t: the chance to experience great design and craftsmanship in real life.
More Than a House Tour
Unlike traditional home tours that spotlight brand-new builds or stage-perfect interiors, the Austin NARI Remodeled Homes Tour focuses on lived-in spaces—real homes for real people. The walls have seen family dinners, holidays, and homework sessions. The updates are thoughtful, not just trendy, and the craftsmanship is built to last.
“This tour has become a trusted platform to connect homeowners with experienced, credentialed remodelers,” says Kayvon Leath, executive director of Austin NARI. “Celebrating 20 years is not only a proud moment—it’s a testament to the growth and professionalism of our remodeling community.”
For guests, that means a rare opportunity: to step into spaces that are both aspirational and attainable. Instead of asking, “Could I ever live here?” the question becomes, “How could I bring these ideas into my own home?”
What’s New for Year 20
Anniversaries deserve celebration, and Austin NARI has gone all out for this milestone year.
A Bold Rebrand
To honor two decades of growth, the tour is unveiling a new brand identity that reflects the evolution of design in Austin.
A High-Tech Upgrade
This year also introduces a brand-new mobile app, designed to enhance the guest experience. The app allows users to navigate the tour with ease, explore details about each home, check FAQs, and even connect directly with remodelers, vendors, and retailers.
Stop, Shop, & Savor
In another exciting first, the tour is partnering with local retailers and lifestyle destinations to create “stop shop” locations along the route. These curated spots add an extra layer of discovery to the weekend. Guests can browse the airy, elevated interiors at Maaribu Home, sip a latte at the Maaribu Café, and wander through Metaphoric, a boutique known for its artful mix of home goods and fashion. The idea is to create moments of rest, inspiration, and connection between the home stops—making the day feel more like an adventure than an agenda.
Moontower on the Eastside
For EASTside readers, one of the biggest draws this year will be the inclusion of not one, but two projects from Moontower Design-Build, a local firm with deep roots in the neighborhood. Known for their inventive, community-minded approach, Moontower has become synonymous with the creative spirit of the Eastside.
Both of their remodeled homes on the tour highlight what makes East Austin so special: bold design choices, clever use of space, and a respect for the eclectic character of the area. From modern updates that maximize natural light to layouts that balance artistry with livability,
these homes are proof that remodeling can honor a neighborhood’s history while pushing its design future forward.
A Party to Kick Things Off
The celebration begins before the first home even opens its doors. On Thursday, September 18, Austin NARI will host its Premier Party at Facets of Austin, an event that has become a highlight for design insiders. From 6 to 9:30 p.m., guests will mingle with remodelers, designers, and fellow design enthusiasts while enjoying bites from La Pera and a wine and beer bar by Drink Slingers. The party also offers a sneak peek into the tour homes, giving attendees a head start on their weekend plans.
Then, on Saturday morning, the tour officially kicks off at Cabinet Couture, Austin NARI’s Premier Retail Partner. Their newly unveiled showroom will serve as the starting point for the weekend, where guests can pick up wristbands and guides while enjoying complimentary donuts. It’s also a rare chance to step inside the showroom before it opens to the public.
Why This Tour Matters
It’s easy to think of home design as just tile selections and paint swatches, but the Austin NARI Remodeled Homes Tour goes deeper. At its core, the event is about storytelling—about the ways people live and how their homes evolve with them.
For longtime participants like CG&S Design-Build, the tour has been instrumental in connecting with homeowners who value thoughtful, high-quality work. “The Austin NARI Remodeled Homes Tour has played a significant role in educating the public about the value of remodeling and the importance of choosing qualified professionals,” says Iris Davis-Quick, marketing manager at CG&S. “It’s helped us build lasting relationships with homeowners who care about design that stands the test of time.”
Beyond its impact on individual homes, the tour also invests in the future of Austin’s design and construction community. Fifteen percent of ticket sales will go toward Workforce Development grants and scholarships for Leander and Hays ISD students, helping to cultivate the next generation of builders, makers, and designers. In this way, every ticket purchased supports not just today’s remodels but tomorrow’s visionaries.
How to Go
The Austin NARI Remodeled Homes Tour runs Saturday and Sunday, September 20–21, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., rain or shine.
General Admission: $50, includes both days of the tour.
VIP Tickets:$100, includes the tour and access to the Premier Party on September 18. Tickets are available now at austinnari.org.
Whether you’re planning a remodel, dreaming of one, or simply love great design, the Austin NARI Remodeled Homes Tour is the ultimate way to spend a weekend. It’s part inspiration, part education, and all Austin—a celebration of how our city lives, grows, and reinvents itself year after year.
