How it all began…

The Reclaimed Space concept all began in 2007 as a special project for Austin-based DIRTCO Construction. Between jobs, DIRTCO founder, rancher and environmentalist Tracen Gardner began constructing a portable building using some reclaimed materials; this portable structure soon became the foundation for what was to be a revolutionary model of modern sustainable living. In the Summer of 2008, Reclaimed Space was born.

Reclaimed Space is about constructive building. We’re focused on reversing the impact new building is having on our natural environment, resources and society. Achieving this goal starts with providing alternative energy capabilities and fully sustainable living, while building with reclaimed materials. Along with our commitment to forward-thinking and eco-responsibility, Reclaimed Spaces are always visually appealing and affordable.

With over 25 years of building experience, our spaces are not just a product of function; they’re built with a guarantee of unrivaled quality. Reclaimed Space is proud to deliver custom, masterfully built Spaces for sustainable living…anywhere.

Tracen Gardner

It was while growing up on his family’s 2,000-acreworking cattle ranch in Central Texas that Tracen Gardner learned his appreciation for land. From an early age, Tracen was taught the importance of understanding the earth and the land he was raised on. Caring for and tending to his land and prized show animals was how Tracen developed his keen sense and awareness for the concept of sustainability.

Tracen’s high school years were spent at the Eaglebrook School in Deerfield, Massachusetts, where the concept of sustainability and earth sciences were major focuses. Tracen went back to Texas to attend the University of Texas at Austin.

After 2 years at UT without a clear direction and the passing of his grandmother, Tracen decided to hitchhike across the country. It was during these travels from Maine to Los Angeles and on to Hawaii that Tracen discovered the type of person he wanted to become. After spending 8 months living in Maui, Tracen decided he was ready to head home and finish college, fulfilling a promise he had made to his grandmother.

Paying the rest of his way through the remainder of college by starting a painting company, Tracen graduated from the University of Texas with a degree in Environmental Resouce Management.

In 1999, Tracen founded Dirtco Construction, an Austin-based construction company specializing in site work and hardscapes. Through Dirtco, Tracen helped develop and beautify many homes and ranches, all while utilizing the sustainable practices he had learned growing up.

After years of searching for the perfect location, Tracen finally acquired his own ranch; a remote piece of acreage near Shiner, Texas. It was the land’s lack of homestead, its distance from the city and lack of utilities that was the inspiration to create a drop-ready home that he could build in Austin and ship to his ranch.

Brian Welch

Reclaimed Space is fortunate enough to have found an amazing artist and carpenter to help create a unique custom finish for every space. He is an expert with cabinets and floors; and is able to produce whatever complicated design we throw at him. Reclaimed Space has found a great addition to the team! He even comes with credentials

Mass College Of Art MFA 2003 Studio for Interrelated Media

University of Texas at Austin BFA 1999 Sculpture and Video Art