Nestled in the heart of downtown Austin, 816 Congress stands as a landmark high-rise, first completed in 1983, and recently revitalized with designs by IA Interior Architects. This 20-story tower, notable for its address on the historic Congress Avenue, has undergone a transformation that marries modern flair with its historical roots. The project’s reimagining is hospitality-focused, ensuring the space is not only user-friendly but also an expressive tribute to its local surroundings.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: IA Interior Architects
Location: Downtown Austin, Texas
Building: 816 Congress
Year of Original Construction: 1983
Art Installation: Ellen Bruxvoort
Design Theme: Hospitality-focused renovation with a blend of modern and historical elements
At the entrance, a striking hot-rolled steel feature wraps around the building, providing a stark yet harmonious contrast to its original gray granite facade. This change includes the removal of a previously obscuring column, transforming the entrance into a welcoming, visible portal. The design introduces a series of arches that carry through the exterior and interior, aligning with the cohesive aesthetic vision. Across three floors, significant upgrades have transformed previously dark areas into spaces filled with light and elegance, blending West Texas undertones with Austin’s unique style through thoughtfully selected materials and textures.
The lobby, a centerpiece of the renovation, boasts a bespoke stone reception desk highlighted by a custom rope installation created by Ellen Bruxvoort, a local fiber artist. Above, a suspended lighting feature mimics the loops of a cowboy lasso, paying homage to the expansive skies of Texas. The design’s neutral color palette draws inspiration from desert landscapes, utilizing materials such as raked plaster, wood, terrazzo, and black metal, giving the space a warm yet refined ambiance.
Lower floors have been reimagined into retail and coworking spaces, emphasizing multi-functional use and collaboration among tenants. These areas seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor environments, with a revamped courtyard that mirrors the building’s curvilinear themes and indoor garden experiences. Additionally, an event-friendly terrace offers panoramic views of the Texas State Capitol, further enhancing the building’s appeal and connectivity with its locale.
The amenity center within 816 Congress is designed to cater to a modern lifestyle, featuring work and recreational facilities that encourage interaction and relaxation. It includes a breakroom, conferencing areas, and lounge sections furnished for comfort. One of the notable features is an enclosed space on the 15th floor housing a golf simulator, a popular spot for tenants seeking to refine their swing during work hours.
Overall, the comprehensive renovation of 816 Congress elevates its attraction by blending classic and contemporary elements, integrated with necessary modern technologies. The space now projects a welcoming, almost residential feel, as noted by project director Kendi Sparks, who observes that the combination of details creates an inviting atmosphere, reminiscent more of a living room than a conventional formal space.
