4002 Tyx Trail, Spicewood

Once in a lifetime chance to own this culturally and architecturally significant home in the Hill Country, designed by John Covert Watson, an intern of Frank Lloyd Wright’s. Set on 30 stunning acres in Spicewood, The Retreat at Lick Creek Lodge is a one-of-a-kind compound offering the architecture lover the opportunity to be surrounded both by exquisite design and natural beauty. Defined by its hyperbolic parabola roof which resembles a splayed deck of cards, this home is striking inside and out. The roof creates a semi-circular motif that is repeated throughout the house, from the entry rotunda to the arching wall of glass that spans the living room and looks out to the tangle of nature enveloping the home.

The interior is a celebration of the Texas Hill Country, making use of locally harvested cedar and nearby-quarried desert masonry contrasted with concrete, steel and glass. Cork floors plus rich oak and maple cabinetry add warmth and richness. An extraordinary entertaining space, the living room arches around a limestone fireplace and looks out over the rolling hills; it has hosted galas and concerts when not serving as a private retreat. The floorplan offers many unique hideaways, from a secret-door-accessed office to a serene meditation room.

The 30-acre property is set on a cliff over the Pedernales river and overlooks steep ravines and miles of green hills. Step down the hillside to the grotto pool, half-hidden in a rocky crevasse, where you can swim as if you were on a desert island. The ultra-private compound includes a large guest house and office at the front of the property; you will wend your way along gravel paths and native landscaping to reach the main house.

Just 40 minutes from Austin, this property offers multiple uses, from a close-in family retreat to executive escape or small resort rental. Regardless, this property will continue to fascinate, inspire and restore its owners for years to come.