--- title: "Hush House — Building Designers and Drafters | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/building-designers-and-drafters/hush-house-pfvwus-pf~1635869463 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1635869463.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Hush House" category: ["Building Designers and Drafters"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/2fe39e560ca56ace_0187-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "Austin, Texas 78721, United States" phone: "(512) 387-0798" website: http://www.hush.house rating: 5 review_count: 11 license_verified: true best_of_houzz_awards: 4 followers: 27 last_updated: 2026-08-15 --- # Hush House > Award-winning Design Studio - Homes That Like to Go Outside Original Houzz profile: [Hush House](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/building-designers-and-drafters/hush-house-pfvwus-pf~1635869463) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Building Designers and Drafters - **Location:** Austin, TX - **Serves:** San Antonio, Austin, Round Rock, San Marcos, Pflugerville, Manor, Hornsby Bend, Shady Hollow, Lost Creek, Horseshoe Bay, West Lake Hills, Barton Creek, Garfield, Wimberley, Onion Creek, Manchaca, Rollingwood, Sunset Valley, San Leanna, Webberville, Hays, Driftwood, Del Valle, Mc Neil - **Verified License:** Yes - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (11 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2022–2025), for Service, Innovator. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Houzz Pro Certified - Builder - Star Houzzer - Recommended on Houzz - 500 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Award winning - High-end - Hired on Houzz - Provides 3D Visualization - Houzz Pro Certified ### Business highlights - Award winning - Best of Houzz winner - High-end - Houzz Pro Certified - Provides 3D Visualization - 4 Hires on Houzz Hush House: Holistic Design-Build in Central Texas We create custom indoor-outdoor homes throughout Central Texas by blending architecture, landscape design, and construction into one fluid process. Why Choose Hush House? Holistic Expertise: Led by Marcus Eldon McKenzie, our cross-trained background ensures seamless integration between your home's interior and exterior. Collaborative Process: We focus on a fun yet highly focused partnership between designer and client. Stress-Free Experience: We quiet the noise of the traditional home design process so you feel heard and can live loud. Discover our portfolio at www.hush.house. ### Services Provided - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Architectural Design - Architectural Drawings - Building Design - Custom Homes - Design Consultation - Energy-Efficient Homes - Floor Plans - Forever Home Design - Green Building - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Home Remodeling - House Plans - Lakefront Property Design - Landscape Plans - Multigenerational Homes - New Home Construction - Pool House Design & Construction - Prefab Houses - Project Management - Site Planning - Space Planning - Sustainable Design ### Areas Served - San Antonio - Austin - Round Rock - San Marcos - Pflugerville - Manor - Hornsby Bend - Shady Hollow - Lost Creek - Horseshoe Bay - West Lake Hills - Barton Creek - Garfield - Wimberley - Onion Creek - Manchaca - Rollingwood - Sunset Valley - San Leanna - Webberville - Hays - Driftwood - Del Valle - Mc Neil ### Typical Job Cost $300,000 - 2.5 million $300,000 - 2.5 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Hush House | | Address | Austin, Texas 78721, United States | | Phone | (512) 387-0798 | | Website | http://www.hush.house | | License Number | CPBD \#44-733 | | Followers on Houzz | 27 | **Social profiles:** - Blog — www.hush.house - Instagram — www.instagram.com/hushhousedesign ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Hush House](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/building-designers-and-drafters/hush-house-pfvwus-pf~1635869463) - **Website:** http://www.hush.house - **Phone:** (512) 387-0798 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Certified Professional Building Designer - USGBC Member - Permaculture Certified - Best Of Houzz 2025 - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2022–2025), for Service, Innovator. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 11 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — David Parker, June 2021** > We hired Marcus and Smash Builders to recommend and carry out a rebuild for the porch and front of our house. He did an absolutely amazing job. I think the best way to describe Marcus is that he is an artist who happens to know how to get every aspect of a job done with his far-reaching expertise. His ideas and designs were incredible -- frankly, well beyond our expectations for such a job. The drawings were spot on and he hired the best people to do each aspect of the job, which was complicated and had many moving parts. Perhaps most important to many people -- his quotes were spot on and very reasonable. There were no overages, in fact, he himself recommended some change orders that even further improved the look, and those change orders actually reduced the price. Amazing young man and a great talent. David Parker **Comment from Hush House:** > Thanks again for your kind words, David. Your time and encouragement are greatly appreciated. What an adventure we took, and what an inspiring life you have set up for you and the family. Looking forward to hearing more of your journeys. ### All 11 reviews **★★★★★ — Nancy Hoffmann-Allison, March 2026** > I started my journey with Hush House, who I found right here on Houzz, a little over a year ago. Marcus was the perfect choice since he lived close to my area, but I think it would have worked out even if we didn't live nearby. Marcus and I worked closely together to create a beautiful design that will complement my current house, which is very Tuscan with lots of rock work, wrought Iron doors and round turret's. His knowledge and creativity were instrumental in creating this little jewel! We broke ground 2 weeks ago and watching this from the ground up is going to be incredible. My builder said it will take about a year, not because of the size but because of the design, with its circular rooms and intricate bridge connecting the new addition to our current house, which is exactly what I asked for. Working with Marcus has been fun, creative, and lots of brainstorming with such a brilliant designer. I'm so happy I choose Hush House for my project. If I were to do it again, I'd choose Marcus hands down. I have included a picture of my current house and, later, a photo of the addition when its farther along. **Comment from Hush House:** > Nancy! Thank you so much. > Excited to see the new place. And the works coming from your new studio :) Its been a real pleasure working with yall. Talk soon. **★★★★★ — ladylivewire, Jan. 2024** > When I wanted to add to my house a two-story addition that was a little outside of the norm, Marcus was 100% on board in a way that other designers were not. He understood my vision and embraced it. Marcus is incredibly easy to work with. He listens, remembers and incorporates my ideas into his plans, bringing my vision to life in ways that actually make sense and are practical while still fun, unique and interesting. > > The brainstorming and design process for the addition was entirely enjoyable. Marcus has been able to take my half-baked ideas and create a plan that I am incredibly excited about. I can’t recommend him highly enough to anyone looking for a designer who is more than OK with outside-of-the box thinking and can take your daydreams and make them concrete. **Comment from Hush House:** > Thank you so much, D! I really appreciate these kind words, and your patience and great energy throughout the project! **★★★★★ — brianmeola, July 2023** > Marcus McKenzie is one of the most talented and thorough designers I've ever met. He strives to understand the core needs, desires, and feelings of a client before initiating his work. His designs reflect the goals of the project while using his own varied skill set to elevate even the most simple aspects. I've worked with Marcus on several personal projects as well as having been fortunate enough to observe his process working with other clients, and I am consistently amazed at his ability to deliver complex, intentional architectural designs that are both conceptually tight and a joy to interact with. His work surprises, delights, and provokes thought while also being firmly grounded in the realities of building and budgeting. **Comment from Hush House:** > Hey Brian! > Wow, thank you so much for the kind review. I really appreciate it, like I do all of our time together. Each project we've worked on together shines very bright in my memory, which is saying a lot, because we are (...counting...) 5 deep now. Depends how you count it, but it really doesn't, because we have so many more to do and that count is always going up! Lets dive into that new Ideabook, eh? **★★★★★ — Laura Cox, July 2023** > I've been working with Marcus for as long as I've owned my house. > > Any fun or interesting idea I have in mind for a remodel or possible concept he is the first person I bring it to. He's always excited to talk about fun design ideas all while listening to my personal preferences and making them fit the space flawlessly. > > Marcus has designed us a stylish enclosed carport that is both functional and a eye-catching addition to the house. > We're also working on some open air shelter concepts for our remote desert property out in Teringua Texas that I'm very excited to see come together. > Currently, we've entrusted Marcus to design a newly constructed home for us and can't wait to see the results. > > All that being said, I obviously take any construction design concepts to Marcus to get his help or input. There isn't any project I wouldn't trust him with. **Comment from Hush House:** > Laura! > Thank you so much for the kind words. I always look forward to our adventures and projects and am excited for more. Never a dull moment or project! **★★★★★ — Sarah Medina, May 2023** > We were lucky enough to work with Marcus on the design of our new home last year. From the start, it was clear that Marcus was committed to listening to our ideas and delivering the home that we wanted – not what he thought we should want. Through a series of prompts and meetings, Marcus helped us expand our initial concept into a fully-realized design for our dream home. The process was smooth, but almost as importantly, it was fun; we weren’t just doing business with a contractor, we were collaborating on a work of art. Marcus understood our vision from the beginning, and having someone who “got it” was just invaluable. We hope to never have to leave our home, but if we had to, we’d work with Marcus again in a heartbeat! **Comment from Hush House:** > Wow, Sarah, thank you so much for such kind words. What can we say, I also feel like the stars really aligned! What a delight it was to collaborate with you and T. The memory of our first meeting forever shines brightly for me. And happy to hear how much you enjoyed the process. It was a dream to be so well aligned, working with you and T. > > Also, thanks again for the fantastic party, we had a blast. > > I hope all is with you and the fam. Looking forward to seeing yall soon! **★★★★★ — Scott Williams, MBA, May 2023** > Marcus was super helpful in the design process. He brought a few simple and elegant ideas that really changed how the space felt and added to its overall appeal. I wouldn't even consider starting a project without his input. **Comment from Hush House:** > Scott! Thank you so much for this fantastic review and kind words. You're the man! > People love your project and when I send them your way, I'm mostly excited to hear about how much fun they have meeting you. Hope all is well with you and the family. **★★★★★ — Blue Diamond Remodeling, May 2023** > We are a GC in the Round Rock/Hutto area. We hired Marcus with Hush House to help us with a Design-Build project in Taylor. When we initially set up the appointment with our client to help with the design they initially hit it off right away. He was the perfect Design option to work with our client. I would highly recommend working with Marcus and Hush House if you want a great one-on-one experience. **Comment from Hush House:** > Thank you so much BDR! You guys rock. I'm always excited to see what you are working on. I appreciate the recommendation, the kind words - and the A+ build! **★★★★★ — Billy Goat Construction, L.L.C., Nov. 2022** > I have been working with Marcus for quite some time now. We met back in 2013 and tackled a great project together here in Austin, Tx. Since then we have done a few projects and working on a couple of them now. Look at his work and give him a call! **Comment from Hush House:** > My man, Gabriel! Thank you sir. Yeah, I guess we've been at this for a while, haha. And you've been at this for a looonnng while. Always looking forward to your projects. Yes sir, let's get busy! **★★★★★ — cbhuston, June 2021** > We've worked with Marcus as the lead on two major outdoor design projects - a large outdoor, concrete patio with electrical, lighting and plant installation and a multi-level deck with electrical, lighting, steel, plumbing and plant installation. Marcus is focused on design that benefits the user without delivering excess. He is easy-to-work-with and focused on a pragmatic yet visually appealing applications that works well within a budget and is designed and delivered for long-term relevancy. We continue to work with Marcus on smaller projects and have recommended him repeatedly. **Comment from Hush House:** > Thank you for your time, and these kind words, C. And I appreciate the recommendations. What an adventure we took! > > Maybe one day I can collaborate with your budding designer :) **★★★★★ — John Lockhart, May 2021** > I own a home in East Austin and worked with Marcus to build a 900 square foot ADU and office / studio space on the back half of my lot. Overall it was a great experience and the end result is more design driven and high quality than I expected when I had the idea to build. Working with Marcus was a very collaborative process. He did a great job of listening to me and my goals for the project and proposing design ideas that I would have never envisioned on my own. That said, I also felt I had a hand in the design process and Marcus was great rethinking design elements that I felt didn't suit my needs or aesthetics. The result is a structure that has unique elements that reflect a creative process that I felt I had an active part in. The end result is an environment with features that I remember being born more as stories than drawings on paper. > > The project came in close to budget and I feel I got a more than I expected for the money I spent on the project. With a tight labor market and competition for resources in Austin, Marcus did a good job of navigating the challenges of the build process, whether that involved interactions with permitting and inspections or finding the right sub-contractors for a job that involved a lot of custom fabrication. Marcus and I were friends before the project, and still are, and that says a lot about the success of a build project that can experience the unexpected. > > The photos in this review are the project near completion in 2017 and recently in 2021. **Comment from Hush House:** > John - Thank you so much for your time and thoughtfulness here. I'm happy our paths have crossed, and continue to intertwine! ## Selected projects - [Wildflower Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wildflower-addition-pj-vj~7842984) - Location: Austin, TX - Photos: 23 - Description: Wildflower Addition: 1970s-Inspired "Grooving Room" & Parent Suite Project Overview The Wildflower Addition is a custom home extension designed to seamlessly integrate a primary suite for parents and a semi-private den for teenagers and guests. By utilizing a retro, 1970s-inspired "conversation pit" design, the architecture creatively overcomes a steep westward slope while providing a unique, separated space for entertaining. Key Project Goals Multi-Generational Living: Create a dedicated suite… - [La Sombra (facade + porch remodel)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/la-sombra-facade-porch-remodel-pj-vj~6531736) - Location: Rollingwood, TX - Photos: 37 - Description: 1. A High-Impact Remodel La Sombra is a facade and porch remodel of a West Austin residence designed by Hush House. Inspired by Costa Rican tropical home gardens, the project transforms an exposed upper balcony into a shaded, outdoor living extension that blends architecture with nature. 2. Design Challenge & Solution The Challenge: Overcoming intense sun exposure on the home's original glass block and tile balcony. The Solution: Creating an elevated, shaded garden with custom steel structures,… - [Ink+Well (modern addition - home office, pool + patio)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ink-well-modern-addition-home-office-pool-patio-pj-vj~7254992) - Location: Austin, TX - Photos: 31 - Description: Ink+Well is a modern multi-level residential addition in the Zilker neighborhood of Austin, Texas. Designed for a cliffside residence bordering a dense forest canopy and protected creek bed, the project integrates a writer's home office studio, a custom glass-and-concrete wine room, an infinity-edge pool, and an expansive covered patio into the natural landscape. Design Challenge & Architectural Solution The Challenge: Navigating a steep, rocky cliffside topography while respecting strict proxim… - [Make+House (artist home, studio, ADU)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/make-house-artist-home-studio-adu-pj-vj~7247523) - Location: Austin, TX - Photos: 24 - Description: Make+House is an new-construction Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Austin, Texas, designed to seamlessly balance work and home life for a creative professional. The project won a 2025 Austin Home Design Award, and features a multi-purpose art studio and a minimalist residential living space arranged under an L-shaped floor plan surrounding a central landscaped courtyard. Design Challenge & Architectural Solution The Challenge: Creating clear boundary and transition between high-intensity creativ… - [The Shop Boxes (home + ADU)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-shop-boxes-home-adu-pj-vj~6612275) - Location: Austin, TX - Photos: 16 - Description: The Shop Boxes is a custom modern residential complex in South Austin, Texas (78745), featuring a main residence and an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) designed for living and working. Situated on a large, wooded private lot, the project pairs sharp, geometric architectural forms with handcrafted, artisan finishes built directly by the homeowner. Design Challenge & Architectural Solution The Challenge: Creating a multi-functional residential compound on a heavily wooded lot that balances precise m… - [The Light Box (custom residence)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-light-box-custom-residence-pj-vj~2677819) - Location: Austin, TX - Photos: 18 - Description: The Light Box is an experimental custom home in East Austin, Texas (78721). Designed by Hush House, the project explores innovative natural daylighting strategies, merging modern architectural geometry with artfully textured, traditional building materials. Design Challenge & Architectural Solution The Challenge: Crafting a modern residential structure that captures abundant natural light without creating harsh glare or high indoor heat gain. The Solution: An experimental design centered around… - [The Pool Box (pool house)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-pool-box-pool-house-pj-vj~5953976) - Location: Horseshoe Bay, TX - Photos: 25 - Description: The Pool Box (also known as Escondido) is a luxury secondary residence, pool house, and custom landscape design located in Horseshoe Bay, Texas (78657). Set in a rolling Hill Country community, the project integrates a standalone cabana structure, a custom sculptural pool, and native Texas landscaping alongside an existing estate. Design Challenge & Architectural Solution The Challenge: Integrating a new secondary residence, pool, and outdoor living area seamlessly into a rolling Hill Country lo… - [The Soak Box (deck + landscape remodel)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-soak-box-deck-landscape-remodel-pj-vj~5953967) - Location: Austin, TX - Photos: 9 - Description: The Soak Box is a compact patio addition and landscape remodel in Austin, Texas (78731). Designed by Hush House, the project seamlessly integrates modern architecture, outdoor landscape design, and custom woodworking to create a serene, Texas-tropical backyard sanctuary. Design Challenge & Architectural Solution The Challenge: Crafting a private, relaxing outdoor living area within a concise backyard footprint while blending natural warmth with durable exterior materials. The Solution: A compose… - [Luna Kitchen (The Shopping Cart Kitchen)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/luna-kitchen-the-shopping-cart-kitchen-pj-vj~44010) - Location: Dallas, TX - Photos: 4 - Description: This unique situation required a careful design response. The dilapidated wooden cabinetry was completely infested by roaches and rats. The elderly owner was unable to clean the surfaces nor locate goods in the rat-nest clutter. He had ceased cooking for himself altogether. The budget was just above zero. Thus, we fabricated the cabinets from five modified shopping carts. Why? The open frames disable pest inhabitation by exposing every crevice. Simultaneously the frames put the food on display f… - [Trim+Edge (landscape + pergola remodel)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/trim-edge-landscape-pergola-remodel-pj-vj~7879888) - Location: Austin, TX - Photos: 20 - Description: Trim+Edge is a custom mid-century modern residential landscape remodel in East Austin, Texas (78702). Designed by Hush House, the project transforms a sloped residential lot into three functional outdoor zones using a slatted steel retaining wall, a pea gravel courtyard, and a shaded patio lounge. The Challenge: Leveling a sloped backyard lot to create usable, multi-functional outdoor living spaces for family gathering and entertaining. The Solution: Installing a low-profile, slatted steel retai… [See all 10 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/building-designers-and-drafters/hush-house-pfvwus-pf~1635869463) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/1191243819.m3u8?s=d26f0c5640d02b8d1c9ea36bb34b9049dd6e3c63&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **Do you prepare detailed permit-ready construction drawings?** Yes, I prepare detailed, construction-ready drawings. My comprehensive design process culminates in a buildable document set, ensuring everything is meticulously prepared and ready for permitting and construction, bringing your vision to life seamlessly. **Do you assist with permitting and code compliance?** Yes, I conduct thorough code research specific to your property during the discovery phase to ensure compliance. While I provide permit-ready drawings, direct permitting assistance is part of my project management, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process for you. **What types of residential buildings do you design?** I specialize in a wide range of residential designs, including custom homes, new home construction, home additions, and remodels. My portfolio also features unique projects like accessory dwelling units (ADUs), artist studios, and designs for lakefront properties, all focused on creating homes where you feel heard. **Do you design custom home plans?** Absolutely! Designing custom home plans is a core service at Hush House. I work closely with you to develop a personalized project narrative and unique design concepts that truly reflect your story and vision for your dream home, ensuring it feels uniquely yours. **Do you design additions, garages, or accessory buildings?** Yes, I frequently design home additions, extensions, and various accessory buildings like ADUs, artist studios, and pool houses. My portfolio showcases several successful addition projects, and I focus on integrating the new structure seamlessly with your existing home and landscape. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [Xeriscape](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/182258156/list/xeriscape) — 8 ideas - [Dogtrot - Taylor](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/149179981/list/dogtrot-taylor) — 13 ideas - [CANTERBURY REMODEL](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/147671540/list/canterbury-remodel) — 17 ideas - [The Buster Box](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/144938371/list/the-buster-box) — 20 ideas [See all 4 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/hushhouse) ## Community Q&A **Q: Expand Primary Bath & Turn Bedroom into Primary Closet** *(in Design Dilemma)* Hi! Wondering houzzers thoughts on turning our current primary closet (8x5) into an expanded bath to add a freestanding tub (which has always been a dream of mine!) Then taking a pretty small adjacent bedroom and turning that into a larger primary closet (11.5x9.5)? We would still maintain 4 bedrooms (3 and this primary suite) Thanks! A: My first thought is, if this is your forever home, or resell value isn't a huge priority, go for it! Second thought - to simplify - could the tub possibly fit into the shower area to the right of the plan? If you could live with a smaller tub, and even if you have to reconfigure vanities, it seems possible. Would save a lot of headache (and maybe loss of amenity count). **Q: Design ideas for exterior? Portico? Porch? Extend the roof?** *(in Design Dilemma)* any suggestions?? The pitch of the roof and the off-centered front door are completely throwing me off. When we purchased the house it had an awning above the front door. I was thinking of doing a portico around the door but it feels too heavy on the left? thoughts? A: It sounds like you are reacting negatively to the "massing" of the facade, the overall volume of it. Understandable. I'd consider a simple continuation of the gable outward to make a porch, and "ground" the porch with low railings and low landscaping. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-15.*