In 2016, former professional cyclist Lance Armstrong put his estate in Austin on the market with an asking price of $8.25 million. The property is still looking for a buyer in the first quarter of 2018, albeit with a price reduction to $7.5 million. Armstrong has owned the residence since 2013, when he purchased it from Ben Barnes, Lieutenant Governor of the state in the early 1970’s, for an undisclosed amount.

The 1920’s Spanish-inflected residence extends to a little more than 8,150 square feet, with six bedrooms and nine baths throughout. The exterior architecture features a shallow-pitched hipped roof capped with semicircular tiles, a series of wrought-iron Juliet balconies, traditional shutters, a stylized chimney, and an arched recessed entrance.

The interiors are distinguished by period charm. Plaster walls, warmth toning, tile or narrow-plank oak floors, and the softening influence of plentiful arches sustain the mood very well. Lighting is a blend of variegated period-style and added recessed fixtures. Interior/exterior flow is fundamental to the living style, and highlights of the home include: the family room, which features a plank ceiling, a skylight, and a series of windows and French doors looking out to the pool; a living room centered by a raised-hearth fireplace flanked by sets of French doors; and the galley kitchen and alcove dayroom.

The home contains a very nice wine cellar, and the property—which extends to a little less than half an acre—incorporates a pool with water features, terraces, cabana, and privacy-oriented landscaping.

Armstrong retired from professional competition in 2011. In 2012, after nearly fifteen years of accumulated accusations, he admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs. A lawsuit lodged against him by the Federal Government goes to trial in May of this year.