Austin has always been a creative hub and in recent years it has also evolved into one of the country's biggest centers of business. The combination of these two complimentary elements has led to an abundance of proposed large-scale projects that fit in with Austin's growth as a global, cosmopolitan focal point. Many of these are residential or office buildings, meant to introduce cutting-edge new design trends to the Austin skyline; some focus more on drawing in tourist attention; others, on creating positive business environments. No matter the purpose, these projects are often highly ambitious concepts that push the boundaries of traditional design and, if implemented, would give Austin a boost as an architectural trendsetter. Here are 3 proposed projects that have the potential to reinvigorate the Austin city landscape:
The Independent
The Independent is set to be a residential tower that will stand at 58 stories, 685 feet, and carry 370 home units. The building concept stands out for its unique, staggered design where each quarter of the skyscraper juts slightly to one side of the previous stack of floors, overhanging the stories below. The exterior features all glass and chrome-like gridding, reflecting sunlight and showcasing a sleek, translucent exterior. The Independent will comprise 950,000 square feet and condos will range in size from just under 700 square feet to almost 4,000 square feet. The complex is also set to carry luxury features for residents, including a sky lounge, fitness and swimming, spas, dog parks, restaurants, shopping, and playgrounds. If built, The Independent will truly become a landmark, as it will be the tallest building in Austin. The estimated cost of the project is $300 million.
Austin Proper Hotel & Condos
Austin Proper is a 35-story luxury condo tower and hotel that will debut in Austin as part of the restoration of the Green Water Treatment Plant. This golden tower overlooks the waters of Lady Bird Lake and exudes a unique style that combines modernity with a softer elegance. The tower will include 120 luxury condo units, resort-style rooftop pools, as well as restaurants and bars. This luxury behemoth will be built in a once unhurried and sleepy neighborhood, so its development is bound to bring an influential presence to the area.
Mexic-Arte Museum
Mexic-Arte Museum has quite the authority in Austin culture, and after over 30 years as an old brick-and-stone fixture on the corner of Congress and West 5th, the museum's leaders have proposed a stunning new design concept for their hopeful reconstruction of the renowned cultural attraction. The concept showcases a spherical building cased in a lucid, glowing, & transparent exterior. From outside, one can see the six stories of slick, contemporary gallery halls that run across the interior, and the bright lights that emit from inside the building shine out onto the streets. The building itself can also serve as an exhibit of artwork as it's facade can project lighting that can cloak different designs - or even writing - on the building's shell. It is certainly a grand & large scale endeavor, but Mexic-Arte has gained a firm reputation for high-quality work from its modest building - why not celebrate with a bold new concept? This project is expected to encapsulate 54,000 square feet and cost up to $30 million.
Austin Individuality
These are just a few of Austin's new projects in the cultural and business realms and they already appear iconic. Austin is constantly changing and with new business parks, neighborhoods, and venues cropping up every day, exceptionality & innovation are key to maintaining that distinct Austin identity. Austin's development proposals rarely fail to meet that individuality mark, and that is one of the main reasons that the city always manages to stay so uniquely Austin!
Posted by Mary Ann Castro on
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