The drive from I-10 to Tapatio Springs takes a solid 10 - 15 minutes, depending on how familiar you are with the curves. Offering very few clues about the awe-inspiring community ahead, stay the course - your time is rewarded as Tapatio Springs emerges, revealing a topographical Hill Country wonder snuggled perfectly in ridges and valleys.
Vast blue skies flood the senses, and unparalleled views take your breath away. One is immediately struck by the magic of abundant wildlife peacefully and beautifully co-existing with the community. Winding paved roads along ruggedly natural landscape contrast perfectly with manicured lawns and the amazing greens of the golf course, creating a driving experience that melts away stress and leaves you thinking that it wouldn't be terrible if one got lost for awhile!
As you go UP-UP-UP and then around the curve of Eagle Drive, a striking gray stone Texas Hill Country estate emerges before you...impressive, yet timeless...then slowly disappears among the ridges and landscape as you come down the cascading hill and around the bend to Axis Circle. There before you, at the end of the cul-de-sac, is the entrance to the home. There is no sign of the house, only beautifully landscaped grounds boasting significant pride of ownership. You can try to get a peak of the house...but, it patiently waits at the top of the long winding drive to surprise you. As you start your way up, you enjoy native plants and trees artfully mixed with impeccable landscaping and personal touches that create a delightful journey. At the top, you find the home that first made its presence known back on Eagle Drive! There it is - that magnificent gray stone and stucco beauty.
Built by William Canavan Companies, you immediately see the quality this builder is known for. Heavy wood cased windows, standing seam galvanized metal roof, master craftsmanship in the masonry, and timeless design are only the first clues of quality.
While the side patio entrance is charming and welcoming, the winding sidewalk lures visitors to the front entrance. However, the 20 mile views over the golf course might cause one to pause a few times along the way...
Once inside, you find yourself in an amazing foyer - large, but warm and welcoming. The eye is first drawn to the amazing curved staircase. The crown molding is intricate and detailed, but pulled together in such a way that it makes a grand statement…art in itself. The porcelain tile floors are amazing. Earthy colors mixed with hints of sophistication create a palette that compliments most decors.
Immediately before you is an open dining room lined with windows framing the view of the impeccably landscaped and impressive backyard. Natural light floods in, bringing warmth to the area. Built-ins along the expanse of the side wall are just the first of many details that will impress you. The owners used every opportunity to tastefully customize the home and not waste one square foot of space that could be used for valuable storage. The result is a home that is not only beautiful, but well organized and functional.
The study hints "his" with its rich wood built-ins and strong moldings, while the "tea room" hints "hers" with graceful curves and soft colors. Both rooms have thoroughly been enjoyed by the owners for both work and entertaining.
The left wing of the home is where the master suite is found. Roomy and comfortable, the built-ins and Heat-N-Glo gas fireplace (with remote control and fan) make this room a retreat. Plenty of room for a sitting area and outside access makes the space even more special. The master bath is huge! Full of natural light, the space is airy and refreshing. The custom built Roman tub is fabulously big, fabulously fun, and very inviting. The large walk-in shower breaks the mold of “normal” with glass blocks that let in the natural light and add visual interest with a multitude of textures. His and her sinks, his and her closets, knee space vanity and ample storage make this bath truly roomy enough for “his and her”. Oh, and that’s not wallpaper…but, a custom hand-painted faux-finish on the walls that seamlessly complements the light and airy feel of this spa-like bath.
The kitchen is truly the heart of this home. Large enough to welcome family and friends to join in the preparations, or accommodate staff for catered functions; it is full of cabinet space, drawer space, and counter space. The cabinets are large with pull out shelves, European hinges, and organizational touches such as racks for plates and trays. Glass front cabinets are perfect for displaying favorite pieces and bring variety and interest to the kitchen design. The divided cutlery drawer, spice drawer, wine rack and appliance garage round out the thoughtful details of the cabinetry. The appliances include a built-in refrigerator (side by side with ice maker), downdraft stove top island, large oven, microwave/convection oven combo, and warming drawer. Reverse osmosis spigots are found at the sink and refrigerator door. A huge walk-in pantry adds to the organization and function of this well-thought out home. The large pantry is thoughtfully located to accommodate formal dinners in the grand dining room. And the granite counter tops are a crowning jewel that gracefully complement, not compete with the other elements.
The kitchen is open to the large family room. While this room is grand with soaring ceilings, and breathtaking views out the huge windows, it is also very inviting. The rock fireplace is a masterpiece. The mantel is a work of art – a hand picked heavy cedar log, finished and shined to perfection, it makes a visual statement that gets well-deserved attention. The hearth has comfortably accommodated country music legends leading sing-alongs for family and friends. Ample space, thoughtful location to the kitchen, maximization of the views, and architectural detail will quickly make this room a favorite for its new owners.
To round out the first floor living space, there is a very large utility room, full of storage and plenty of open work area; a breakfast nook with views of the backyard; a computer nook, thoughtfully convenient but not obvious, for taking care of day-to-day business; a gorgeous powder room with an antique cabinet sink and mirror; and a “holiday closet” absolutely perfect for organizing all of your seasonal items, extra linens, or entertaining supplies. The three-car oversized garage is attached and allows easy access to the home or the upstairs private suite by way of stairwell or elevator.
The upstairs suite is well thought out and offers many possibilities. The elevator access and layout make it perfect for use as a mother-in-law suite. Guest quarters or a Nanny Suite might also be considerations. The suite includes a full bedroom with lots of closet space, a full bath with handicap access, spacious living area with custom built-ins, and kitchenette with breakfast area.
Down the hall, three more bedroom suites are found. Each is roomy, comfortable, and carries on the architectural detail of the rest of the home. Walk-in closets and full baths make these rooms very welcoming. Two stairwells located at each end of the hall create easy access to the downstairs living area.
Also upstairs, a game room with rich wood tones, heavy cased windows, and beautiful built-ins can be found. Enjoy a game of cards, board games, quiet time with a loved one just visiting, or enjoy the privacy to read and listen to music while enjoying the spectacular views. The gorgeous built-in’s creatively hide a Murphy bed, just in case more guest quarters are needed.
At the end of the upstairs hall is a very large finished empty room, just waiting for the new owners’ personal touch. Purposely situated away from the natural light, the space is perfect for a media room. Other suggestions have been an exercise room, child’s playroom, or climate controlled storage. Line it with twin beds and have the perfect spot for sleepovers! The possibilities are limited only by one’s imagination!
The community of Tapatio Springs offers relaxed living, gorgeous Texas Hill Country views, and more amenities than “you can shake a stick at”! Tapatio is regarded as one of the foremost resorts in South Texas and home to 27 holes of championship golf on three spectacular courses. The community also offers two lighted tennis courts, a heated swimming pool with adjoining Jacuzzi, and a complete fitness center. For those with a more active lifestyle, enjoy western-style horseback riding, freshwater fishing, and seven miles challenging hike and bike trails. To finish off the day, have dinner at the Blue Heron Restaurant, a true diner’s delight! Surrounded by views of the golf course, guests are served the best in continental cuisine. Or, for a more casual experience, try The Turn Snack Bar and Grill.
Texas Hill Country Living at it’s best! See all this community and home have to offer by scheduling a tour and private showing with your Realtor. The Sellers are represented by Karen Mathison with RE/MAX Associates of Boerne. She can be contacted at (830) 446-9134 for showing instructions.
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