Steve Drake on the Enduring Charm of Country Communities
Resident Spotlight:
Steve Drake on the Enduring Charm of Country Communities
This month, we’re pleased to feature Steve Drake of Townsend Reserve. Steve’s journey and his profound appreciation for Round Top offer a powerful testament to the vibrant, enriching lifestyle we cultivate. His story isn’t just about property; it’s about passion, community, and finding a place that truly feels like home.
Steve and his wife, Becky, are no strangers to the soul-stirring rhythm of country living. Their roots in Round Top stretch back to 1999, where they built their first country house. After years of raising their family and embracing diverse passions—from Steve’s unique sheep herding adventures to Becky’s celebrated career in cutting horses—they found themselves drawn back to the magnetic charm of Round Top. Now, with three married children and five grandchildren, their vision crystallized: a place that offered the idyllic beauty of accessible country life, yet without the demanding upkeep of vast acreage.
For Steve, the choice to embrace Townsend Reserve was effortless, driven by its truly unparalleled location. “The location is amazing because you can walk to town,” Steve shared, his words painting a picture of quiet streets, ancient trees, rolling landscapes, and the iconic covered bridge. This blend of accessibility and natural splendor was paramount. Gone were the days of isolated properties; Townsend Reserve promised, and delivered, a thriving neighborhood where residents stroll leisurely, connect effortlessly, and immerse themselves in a serene, active environment. “We wanted to be close and we wanted to be around people,” he emphasized, a clear aspiration for genuine community over solitude, and cherished moments over endless maintenance.
Perhaps the most enchanting discovery for Steve has been the remarkable evolution of Round Top itself – a transformation into a vibrant hub of activities and social connections. He fondly recalls an earlier era when residents might “cycle out” after a few years, once their home projects were completed and the initial novelty faded. Today, Round Top pulses with an invigorated energy. With dynamic new venues like The Compound and Blue Hills, and a calendar overflowing with wine, film, and art festivals, Steve asserts, “you really don’t run out of opportunities to be social.” This profound shift means residents aren’t just visiting; they are actively engaging, sinking deeper roots, and becoming an intrinsic part of the town’s lively tapestry.
Steve perfectly encapsulates Round Top as possessing a “quintessential cool, upscale character”—a charming Texas small town that masterfully intertwines rustic authenticity with the refined amenities one might expect from Houston. The convenient commute from Houston adds to its distinct appeal, offering a desirable escape that never compromises on the authentic country feel.
Steve passionately conveys that the true heart of Country Communities, particularly Townsend Reserve, lies in its promise of a relaxed, yet profoundly engaging lifestyle. It’s about prioritizing “time on the porch making memories with friends and family” over the demands of a tractor or livestock. It’s the simple joy of unlocking your front door, watching children skip to the store for ice cream, or knowing your wife can enjoy a leisurely stroll for antique treasures or a glass of wine in less than ten minutes.
Steve’s profound connection to Country Communities and Townsend Reserve is a living testament to the very vision we passionately pursue: crafting beautiful, livable spaces where genuine community thrives, convenience harmonizes with charm, and the timeless pleasures of country living are not just embraced but celebrated. We are immensely proud and grateful for residents like Steve, whose stories so powerfully articulate the unique allure of what makes our communities truly extraordinary.