Skip Walker
22:27 17 Dec 25
We hired Katz to undertake a significant renovation of our home, a roughly 3,000 sq ft split-level, and the project ran from March 2023 through March 2025. The scope was extensive: adding approximately 900 sq ft, primarily by building a new second floor over the original primary bedroom to create a new primary suite with views, while also gut-renovating the rest of the house down to the studs.
The renovation included complete replacement of electrical and plumbing systems, replacement of all windows, spray foam insulation throughout the exterior walls, expansion of the rear footprint, and updates to all major living spaces. One of the defining challenges was a protected heritage oak tree governed by city regulations. Katz proactively brought in an arborist and worked closely with the city to preserve the tree while shaping the design so the new second story fit beneath it, which speaks to their professionalism and problem-solving approach.
Katz also provided design support to help develop the new primary suite while keeping the rest of the house functional and thoughtfully updated without unnecessary changes. They helped future-proof the home by incorporating accessibility-minded features such as a curb-free primary shower and planning for a lift. We were also supported extensively in making finish selections—plumbing fixtures, kitchen design, lighting, tile, flooring, and more—through their recommended designer, Inés Lombardi, who was a joy to work with.
Midway through the project, Zack and AC joined the team as project managers. Both were highly organized, proactive, and consistently ahead of issues. Problems were often resolved before we even realized they existed, which made a meaningful difference over the long timeline.
Budget awareness was a constant theme throughout the project. Katz ensured we understood the implications of design or material changes and never allowed decisions that would significantly impact the budget without transparency. This approach built trust and helped avoid unpleasant surprises.
The quality of the subcontractors Katz works with is outstanding. When an original cabinetry vendor proved unreliable, Katz switched vendors, which paid off tremendously. The cabinetry throughout the home—including the kitchen, multiple bathrooms, and office/library—is exceptional. The plumber was an artist, thoughtfully future-proofing systems, and the flooring team went above and beyond, including carefully matching wood flooring color on site to a showroom selection.
On a personal level, Lucy and Joel are wonderful to work with. Lucy makes you feel genuinely cared for, while Joel brings deep expertise and steady leadership. Large renovations are never easy, but working with Katz gave us confidence that quality would not be compromised and issues would be handled professionally. We are extremely happy with our home and would not hesitate to recommend Katz to anyone considering a complex, high-quality renovation.
The renovation included complete replacement of electrical and plumbing systems, replacement of all windows, spray foam insulation throughout the exterior walls, expansion of the rear footprint, and updates to all major living spaces. One of the defining challenges was a protected heritage oak tree governed by city regulations. Katz proactively brought in an arborist and worked closely with the city to preserve the tree while shaping the design so the new second story fit beneath it, which speaks to their professionalism and problem-solving approach.
Katz also provided design support to help develop the new primary suite while keeping the rest of the house functional and thoughtfully updated without unnecessary changes. They helped future-proof the home by incorporating accessibility-minded features such as a curb-free primary shower and planning for a lift. We were also supported extensively in making finish selections—plumbing fixtures, kitchen design, lighting, tile, flooring, and more—through their recommended designer, Inés Lombardi, who was a joy to work with.
Midway through the project, Zack and AC joined the team as project managers. Both were highly organized, proactive, and consistently ahead of issues. Problems were often resolved before we even realized they existed, which made a meaningful difference over the long timeline.
Budget awareness was a constant theme throughout the project. Katz ensured we understood the implications of design or material changes and never allowed decisions that would significantly impact the budget without transparency. This approach built trust and helped avoid unpleasant surprises.
The quality of the subcontractors Katz works with is outstanding. When an original cabinetry vendor proved unreliable, Katz switched vendors, which paid off tremendously. The cabinetry throughout the home—including the kitchen, multiple bathrooms, and office/library—is exceptional. The plumber was an artist, thoughtfully future-proofing systems, and the flooring team went above and beyond, including carefully matching wood flooring color on site to a showroom selection.
On a personal level, Lucy and Joel are wonderful to work with. Lucy makes you feel genuinely cared for, while Joel brings deep expertise and steady leadership. Large renovations are never easy, but working with Katz gave us confidence that quality would not be compromised and issues would be handled professionally. We are extremely happy with our home and would not hesitate to recommend Katz to anyone considering a complex, high-quality renovation.
Joshua Savior
19:02 22 Jul 24
I recently had my house remodeled after a significant freeze caused extensive damage, and I couldn't be more pleased with the results. The contractor's high level of expertise was evident from the start, showcasing not only exceptional design work but also stellar execution throughout the project.
From the initial consultation to the final touches, their team demonstrated professionalism and meticulous attention to detail. What stood out the most was their outstanding customer service. They handled every aspect of dealing with the insurance company, making the entire process seamless and stress-free for me.
The craftsmanship and quality of work exceeded my expectations. My home now looks better than ever, thanks to their innovative design ideas and flawless execution. I highly recommend this contractor to anyone seeking top-notch remodeling services. Their expertise, design brilliance, and unparalleled customer service truly set them apart.
Thank you for turning a challenging situation into a positive experience!
From the initial consultation to the final touches, their team demonstrated professionalism and meticulous attention to detail. What stood out the most was their outstanding customer service. They handled every aspect of dealing with the insurance company, making the entire process seamless and stress-free for me.
The craftsmanship and quality of work exceeded my expectations. My home now looks better than ever, thanks to their innovative design ideas and flawless execution. I highly recommend this contractor to anyone seeking top-notch remodeling services. Their expertise, design brilliance, and unparalleled customer service truly set them apart.
Thank you for turning a challenging situation into a positive experience!
Linda Engelbrecht
12:04 21 Jul 24
We purchased a Katz Builders home almost 20 years ago. The construction was amazing plus Joel and Lucy Katz (and their very responsive team) were always available anytime we had a question. We are moving from Austin and we are again reminded of how fortunate we were to have enjoyed such a special home .. and a deepening friendship over these 20 years!
Ronald Covey
14:21 19 Jul 24
The Katz team struck the ideal balance for our extensive interior remodel project. They were realistic about the budget and the timeline from the outset--a product of their years of working in Austin--and they brought the work to completion as promised. While not over-promising in the big picture, they showed consistent professional concern throughout, resolving the unexpected issues that come up when working with an old house, always trying to make sure we were happy about the work, and following up afterward to make sure that everything in our house is functioning as it should. We love how things turned out, and appreciate working with builders who felt like partners throughout the process!
Jay Fry
16:08 21 May 24
Working with Lucy and the entire Katz BuildersTeam has been one of the smoothest and most efficient experiences I've had with any custom builder and remodeler. I would highly recommend this company for your Home building needs.
Jessica Dapper
17:38 12 Dec 20
Katz Builders finished a complete remodel of the interior our home in December 2019. We are so very grateful that the finished product is beautiful, well-crafted and was done before the pandemic started. They really worked with us to get back into the house as soon as possible when our short-term rental was ending. The end product made every room more livable and added much needed living space for our kids.
We had a great relationship with our foreman who anticipated almost every question and concern we had during the process. Further, we feel blessed to have worked with Joel and Lucy who deeply care about the Katz reputation and about keeping their clients happy even after the build is over.
We had a great relationship with our foreman who anticipated almost every question and concern we had during the process. Further, we feel blessed to have worked with Joel and Lucy who deeply care about the Katz reputation and about keeping their clients happy even after the build is over.
Komal Sheth
02:49 19 Nov 20
As a designer, every tiny detail matters to me. This is why, when it comes to working with builders. I prefer to work with teams that are just as detail oriented as me. I was very excited to work with Katz Builders on my our Lost Creek Home Renovation Project.They have an impressive portfolio and enjoy a good reputation in the industry. It was a complex project but we were able to work together really well. The team was always willing to listen to the client and the interior design team, incorporating our ideas into their plans and then turning these plans into reality simply brilliantly.
In particular, I would rate them very highly on their customer service. From budget to functional preferences, Katz Builder team did their best to deliver on client's criteria throughout the building process. Their workmanship is impressive and they never shy away from sharing their two cents on improving a design and saving costs. Given their tremendous experience in the industry, their ideas would always add value to the project. They have in-house team of architects, engineers, contractors and project managers which makes the whole process seamless and keeps the coordination smooth. All in all, the project was very successful with the client getting all they wanted and more! If you are looking to onboard a custom home builder who can give you impeccable quality and finish, I would highly recommend Katz Builders
In particular, I would rate them very highly on their customer service. From budget to functional preferences, Katz Builder team did their best to deliver on client's criteria throughout the building process. Their workmanship is impressive and they never shy away from sharing their two cents on improving a design and saving costs. Given their tremendous experience in the industry, their ideas would always add value to the project. They have in-house team of architects, engineers, contractors and project managers which makes the whole process seamless and keeps the coordination smooth. All in all, the project was very successful with the client getting all they wanted and more! If you are looking to onboard a custom home builder who can give you impeccable quality and finish, I would highly recommend Katz Builders
Claire Jordan McGregor
14:41 15 Nov 18
The Katzes built and updated my parents home, so when it was time for us to make some changes to our builder-grade home in east Austin we didn't even think about calling anyone else. Everyone on the team was amazing to work with through every step of the project. We started out just wanting to put in new windows to bring more light into our living room and quickly found that we also wanted to personalize our kitchen and inject some real personality into the place through electrical, tiling, cabinet work, paneling, and completing overhauling our pantry and kitchen island. What we got was a transformed living, cooking, and dining area that meets and exceeds every aspect of our original vision.
Every crew that arrived at our house was courteous, respectful, clean, prompt, communicative, and above all, EXTREMELY talented with the utmost care and attention to detail. We worked with Greg primarily during the project and he truly put my mind at ease and is to credit for the super smooth experience we enjoyed. You'd think having your entire downstairs out of order with a 10-month-old would be a nightmare, but given the steady, beautiful progress and frequent communication, the 5 weeks of the project just flew by. How do I know they're great contractors to work with? Everything they said would happen, happened, and any changes to schedule were communicated WELL in advance so that there were no surprises in terms of timeline. And when there WERE little surprises, as will always be the case when you start tearing into walls, Greg and his teams took care of them, often only making me aware after the everything was back to good or when there was a "this or that" decision to make! I never once felt like I had to brainstorm or "solve" a problem or feel inconvenienced by changes to the plan. And when I was the one introducing changes to the plan (additions of cabinet painting, changes to electrical scope, etc.), Greg's answer was always "of course!" and he took care of the details from there. It was truly awesome. I can't say enough great things about working with the team at Katz Builders... it was by far one of the very best investments we've ever made, in our home and in our happiness living in it.
Every crew that arrived at our house was courteous, respectful, clean, prompt, communicative, and above all, EXTREMELY talented with the utmost care and attention to detail. We worked with Greg primarily during the project and he truly put my mind at ease and is to credit for the super smooth experience we enjoyed. You'd think having your entire downstairs out of order with a 10-month-old would be a nightmare, but given the steady, beautiful progress and frequent communication, the 5 weeks of the project just flew by. How do I know they're great contractors to work with? Everything they said would happen, happened, and any changes to schedule were communicated WELL in advance so that there were no surprises in terms of timeline. And when there WERE little surprises, as will always be the case when you start tearing into walls, Greg and his teams took care of them, often only making me aware after the everything was back to good or when there was a "this or that" decision to make! I never once felt like I had to brainstorm or "solve" a problem or feel inconvenienced by changes to the plan. And when I was the one introducing changes to the plan (additions of cabinet painting, changes to electrical scope, etc.), Greg's answer was always "of course!" and he took care of the details from there. It was truly awesome. I can't say enough great things about working with the team at Katz Builders... it was by far one of the very best investments we've ever made, in our home and in our happiness living in it.
At Katz Builders Inc., we've earned a reputation for building and remodeling Austin's finest homes since 1984.
Our team is fully committed to delivering five-star design-build service, which includes taking your project through every step from design to construction completion.
Throughout our four decades in business, we've proudly served the local community. Cultivating lasting relationships, our customers choose us for their projects time and time again. Interested in knowing more about Katz Builders Inc.,? We are more than happy to show you our expertise in action.
Contact us today:
(512) 301-6000
lucykatz@katzbuilders.com
As a design-build firm, we have the experience, skills, and expertise to take you through each step of the construction process, from creating the design for your new luxury custom home to remodeling/renovating.
As a design-build firm, we have created a seamless process. All design and construction services—including interior design, architecture, engineering, and more—are coordinated and accomplished in-house.
We are your one-stop shop for the entire project.
OUR SERVICES
From building your custom luxury home to a simple bathroom renovation—and everything in between.
DESIGN-BUILD FIRM
As a design-build firm, you will have one entity with whom to work, us. We provide a seamless, simple, efficient, and effective process.
CUSTOM HOMES
Designing and building one-of-a-kind, site-specific, luxury dream homes. This means starting from scratch and integrating your specific wants and needs.
COMPLETE RENOVATION
Love your home's location? Want a complete home renovation? With new designs, features, and colors, an updated look can breathe new life into your home.
ADDITIONS/ EXPANSIONS
Dreaming of more space? Need room for a family with changing physical needs? Don’t pack up and move out. Custom additions range from a living room, master bedroom, casita, and more.
KITCHEN & BATHROOM
Bring new life to your home's most important spaces with the help of our complete kitchen and bathroom remodeling services, integrating the latest in technology.
OUR PROCESS
INITIAL CONSULTATION
ASSEMBLE OUR DESIGN TEAM
IDENTIFY
BUDGET
CREATE
DESIGN
DESIGN
REVIEW
MATERIAL
SELECTION
PROJECT
PROPOSAL
PLANNING
& PERMITS
CONSTRUCTION PROCESS
PROJECT
COMPLETION
POST
CONSTRUCTION
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
With years of experience as a design-build firm, we ensure that all steps of the process are completed with a keen eye for superior results, In House and on budget. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Some areas we proudly service are: Austin, Tarrytown, Pemberton, Hyde Park, East Austin, Zilker, Rosedale, Windsor Park, Allendale, Brentwood, Northwest Hills, Bee Cave, Sunset Valley, Rollingwood, West Lake Hills, Oak Hills, Lost Creek, Spanish Oaks and Lakeway.
