This mixed-use project stands on a prominent corner of Austin’s storied South Congress Avenue, turning what had been a parking lot for the St. Vincent de Paul resale shop into a bustling retail and creative office space. Interaction with nature was central to the design. The project renovated the existing 5,100-square-foot former thrift shop and constructed an adjacent 14,900-square-foot mixed-use building. The two floors of office space feature operable windows positioned to provide effective natural cross ventilation. Stairs and circulation occur outdoors for regular fresh air. Meeting spaces are provided both indoors and outdoors, and all office areas are daylit.
A blend of brick shades and textures provided the right animated surface for this vibrant pedestrian district. A diagonal grid of shadow play on the most prominent corner of the building was achieved by turning brick on end to extend them from the finish wall. The knobby visual feeling created by the pattern changes through the day as the sun crosses the sky. Brick defines the project as both its predominant surface material and its readily visible image from street or sidewalk.
