downtown Austin's real estate and neighborhood blog
As far as I know, there aren’t currently any Cuban restaurant concepts in downtown Austin proper. Well, there WASN’T before this week, anyway. There’s a new one popping up in the warehouse district, where the now defunct Stack Burger Bar used to be (one of the restaurant concepts owned by the now infamous Yassine Enterprises).
Let me introduce you to Pleasant Storage Room, officially opening TODAY: [Read more…] about Cuban Restaurant in Downtown Austin – Pleasant Storage Room
At last night’s Downtown Commission meeting, we heard from White Lodging on their proposed 33 story, 353 foot, 410 key, dual-branded Aloft/Element hotel at 7th & Congress Ave.
They paid more attention to engaging Congress Ave this time, compared to what they did originally with the JW. The rhythm of the columns, al fresco dining, and dramatic doorway from Congress are hat tips to connecting with the street scape.
The development is seeking a zoning variance related to step-backs and loading docks, which the DC voted to recommend to City Council provided that: 1) accommodation be made to the adjacent Hideout Theatre, which shares a party wall with the proposed development, 2) keeping the shared alley and sidewalks clear, 3) The South facing wall has no windows since the adjacent property could eventually be developed. There is a light well, but additional architectural consideration should be paid to this wall since this will be the most visible face of the building.
One interesting feature of this proposal is there will be zero parking spaces (excluding ADA requirements) and only three valet spots. This isn’t the first Congress Ave hotel concept to propose no onsite parking.
I’m a believer in reducing parking to increase demand for public transit and reduce reliance upon cars. It’s a rip-the-band-aid-off and get through the pain approach. But, only three valet spots for such a large building? Haha, lets watch this play out! White Lodging knows a thing or two about operating successful hotels and how to park them. The free market will determine the wisdom of this decision. If they make it work it will be a huge signal to other developers about what is possible.
Overall, I’m impressed with the proposal. It’s reflective of a city that’s grown up (not growing up) and it’s important that we support projects that bring density to narrow lots.
Tall and slender, if built, this would be the first new skyscraper on Congress Ave since … well… White Lodging’s other hotel currently under construction, the 1000 room JW Marriott.
-Jude
If you haven’t yet read this week’s edition of The Austin Chronicle – and seen the amazing front page photo/rendering – please check it out at once here! Stupendous reporting by Senior News Editor, Michael King, of breaking news regarding a multi-billion dollar plan to build a Major League Soccer (MLS) stadium in the middle of Lady Bird Lake, coupled with the new Light Rail line running straight through the center of the stadium as the train crosses the river.
[Read more…] about Downtown Austin Goes For The Goal – and the Gold!
Have you experienced the phenomena that BIG things seem to happen when you’re on vacation? This past week, while we attempted to cruise, there were multiple status report updates about three tall projects in downtown Austin.
99 Trinity Tower Announces $100mm, 39 Story Apartment Highrise
Back in November, DAB broke the news about Trinity Tower. Located just east of the Four Seasons Residences, and north of Lakeside apartments. This will become a very dense intersection. We have big expectations that this highrise will fill the perceptive gap between the Rainey Street neighborhood and the rest of downtown Austin. We’re thrilled that they are aiming high with a 39 story tower, which would be the tallest apartment building in Austin. Demolition of the warehouse should commence soon. (Statesman)
Waller Park Place Closes On Land
The Sutton Company closed on their deal to buy Perry Lorenz’s incredible 3-acre assemblage along Waller Creek. What Sutton is proposing is nothing short of the largest private development in the history of downtown Austin. Three towers in the Rainey Street district, including significant Waller Creek enhancements, stretching from Cesar Chavez to Davis Street. (Statesman)
Fairmont Selects Builder
This was significant because half of the people I talk with have begun to think this project is vapor-ware. The project was planned to break ground a while back. The Fairmont website is showing delivery in “2016+”, and the sign pictured above says “Opening Fall 2017”. We hope this is a reliable signal that the project will break ground soon. (Statesman)
-Jude
We like to highlight good and interesting art on DAB. I’ve recently written about the cool little Art-O-Matic found at a couple of downtown locations, and the public art piece High Water Mark.
Back in 2012, Jude bought out the entirety of Austin Java when he learned about Mike Johnston aka “Truth”, and throughout 2013 we admired the work at The People’s Gallery showcase at Austin City Hall.
Last month, the TOWERS office acquired a very special work that had been showcased next to the City Hall elevators for the past year. It’s called Different Strokes for Different Folks, and is the concept of up-and-coming artist Hallie Rae Ward.
Different Strokes for Different Folks was one of two pieces Hallie had featured in the 2013 People’s Gallery. Hallie will be showcasing more of her work at this year’s West Austin Studio Tour – so, please check it out!
Below, I ask Hallie a few questions about what inspires her work. You can learn more about Hallie on her website or Facebook page.
[Read more…] about Art in Downtown Austin – Different Strokes for Different Folks
