Homes Tour – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Tour?

The Homes Tour showcases quality residential design while educating the public about architectural professionals and the built environment. The Tour raises funds to support the activities and programs of the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects to help provide programming to the public and architectural community.

When is the Tour?

October 6-7, 2012

What are the hours?

10:00am – 6:00pm each day

What is the cost?

$30 in advance; $35 at the door; $5 each individual house

What is the method of payment?

Cash, check and credit card at the AIA Austin Office

Cash and check only at each house, Zinger Hardware, TreeHouse and Realty Austin Lake Travis

Where can I buy my tickets?

1. AIA Austin (801 W. 12th Street)

2. www.aiaaustin.org

3. Zinger Hardware (4001 N. Lamar, Suite 300)

4. TreeHouse (4477 S. Lamar, Suite 600, next to Central Market South)

5. Realty Austin Lake Travis (2418 RR 620 South, Suite 600 - weekdays and on October 6th and 7th)

6. At each home on the weekend of the Tour

*Individual ticket sales are available at each house only

Can I bring my kids?

Children 10 and under are free to attend the Tour. Anyone over the age of 10 will be required to pay full price to go on the Tour. Please keep in mind these are private homes and we ask that you hold your children’s hands at all times.

How does the Tour work?

This is a self-guided Tour. Attendees are provided a wristband ticket, along with a brochure. The brochure provides information about the Tour, maps and directions to each home, photos of the homes, contact information for the Architect and contact information for the associated sponsors. Attendees then decide where they want to start and end.

The wristband ticket must be worn both days. If you must remove it on Saturday night, please bring the cut off wristband to the first home you visit on Sunday and the volunteer will provide you with another one. This will be done only once.

I notice there are shuttles, how does that work?

If a home is located in Westlake Hills, the City of Westlake requires that they be on a shuttle route. This provides easier parking for all involved. Shuttles will depart staging (Westlake High School, 1337 Westbank Drive) at 9:50am and last shuttle will leave at 5pm.

Are the houses for sale?

No. The homes are designed by an architect for a client. These are private residences. Exceptions occur and would be noted in the brochure or at the home.

May I take photos?

No. As these are private residences, you may not bring a camera with you to the Tour or use a camera phone to take pictures. You risk surrender of your ticket.

Do I have to take my shoes off?

Yes. Due to the large number of people that attend the Tour, we ask that you remove your shoes before entering each home. You may leave them outside in the front entryway, or carry them with you through the home. Occasionally, the architect will provide booties to wear over your shoes. Please do so when they are available. Bags may also be offered.

If I am unable to attend, may I get a refund?

No. You may give your tickets to someone else.