Our Story
Duke McDowell may have started Sterling Custom Homes 35 years ago, but his journey began long before then in Texas, building pools with his father and brother. From a young age he knew early mornings and late nights well, doing everything from excavation, steel work, plumbing, and placing each individual tile in its place. He learned there are no shortcuts and that there is only one way to do things, and that’s the right way. That is the Sterling standard.
After graduating from Texas Tech with an engineering degree and serving as V.P. for two prominent Texas homebuilding companies, Duke founded Sterling Custom Homes in Austin, Texas. From its inception, Sterling has remained a small business dedicated to fulfilling big dreams. You’ll see this as you meet each of our team members along your building process and realize we’re more than a team – we’re a family. These things are what make us who we are and inspire us to give you the quality and care you deserve.