Building a custom home on Lake LBJ is the dream for many Texans who want the perfect blend of luxury living, lakefront recreation, and Hill Country charm. But the process is very different from buying a resale house or even building in a traditional subdivision. From choosing the right homesite to designing with the lake in mind, here are the top ten things you need to know before starting your Lake LBJ custom home journey.
1. Location on the Lake Matters
Not all waterfront is the same. Lake LBJ stretches through Horseshoe Bay, Kingsland, Granite Shoals, Sunrise Beach, and beyond. Each section of shoreline has its own water depth, traffic patterns, and view corridors. Some areas are more private and serene, while others are bustling with resort activity. Choosing the right homesite sets the stage for everything that follows.
2. Understand Floodplain and Water Levels
Lake LBJ is a constant-level lake, which makes it more stable than many other Hill Country lakes. Still, you’ll need a site survey to understand elevation, setback requirements, and floodplain considerations. This ensures your home—and your boathouse—are designed safely and legally.
3. Boathouse and Dock Planning
For most Lake LBJ homeowners, the dock is just as important as the house. Think ahead about boat slips, jet ski lifts, storage for water toys, and how the dock connects seamlessly to your outdoor living areas. Early planning avoids costly redesigns down the road.
4. Views Drive Design
Whether it’s a sweeping main-lake panorama or a quiet cove backdrop, your home should be oriented to capture its best view. This influences window placement, porch design, pool orientation, and even how your driveway approaches the house.
5. Architectural Guidelines Still Apply
Some communities around Lake LBJ—like Escondido, Summit Rock, or Horseshoe Bay Resort enclaves—have design review committees. These guidelines cover exterior finishes, rooflines, landscaping, and more. Partnering with a builder experienced in ARC processes will save you time and frustration.
6. Indoor–Outdoor Living Is Essential
A Lake LBJ home is all about flow between interior and exterior spaces. Retractable glass walls, screened porches, negative-edge pools, and outdoor kitchens are standard features in today’s luxury designs. Plan for spaces that make it easy to enjoy the lake year-round.
7. Think Multi-Generational
Lake houses become family gathering places. Designing for bunk rooms, guest casitas, or flexible sleeping quarters ensures your home can host kids, grandkids, and friends without feeling cramped. Multi-gen planning is one of the smartest investments you can make.
8. Don’t Overlook Storage
Lake life means gear—paddleboards, fishing rods, wakeboards, golf carts, and more. Plan ahead with conditioned storage rooms, oversized garages, and hidden cubbies that keep your main living spaces clutter-free.
9. Infrastructure Is Key
Some waterfront lots may require septic systems, specific utility hookups, or retaining walls to maximize usability. Before falling in love with a lot, confirm that it’s buildable without extensive (and expensive) site work.
10. Choose the Right Builder
Perhaps the most important decision of all—select a builder who understands both the luxury homebuilding process and the unique challenges of waterfront construction. At Goliath Luxury Homes, we bring deep experience designing estates that celebrate the lake while delivering the craftsmanship, technology, and efficiency today’s families expect.
Final Thoughts
Lake LBJ offers a rare opportunity: a constant-level lake in the Texas Hill Country with world-class golf, dining, and resort amenities nearby. By understanding the nuances of waterfront construction, you can build a legacy home that your family will enjoy for generations.
Ready to explore your dream home on Lake LBJ? Contact Goliath Luxury Homes today to schedule a private consultation and discover how we bring your vision to life.
