Field trip: Michael Hsu Office of Architecture

Lamar Union Complex
Michael Hsu Office of Architecture

From the architect:  "The design for this ground-up mixed-use development provides a varied urban experience while capturing the character of its south Austin neighborhood. The site, home to the iconic Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, incorporates three buildings of varying heights with an internal drive that terminates in a pedestrian plaza anchored by the theater. The design for the façade of the Alamo Drafthouse addition is inspired by vintage theater components and the iconic red stage curtain. The ground level mixes local retail and restaurant tenants, all encouraged to assert their identities through individually designed storefronts. The apartment blocks above are clad in two tones of metal panels, accented with wood and bold colors that vary across the façade. Large glassy volumes anchor each main building, housing club amenities that provide a direct interaction with the residents to the streetscape. Along Treadwell, the development steps down in scale with two-story walk-up units clad in undulating masonry. A community garden and integral bike trail follow the west side of the project closest to the residential neighborhood. In collaboration with BOKA Powell." Tracie Gesch, an interior designer at Michael Hsu Office of Architecture, provided a tour of the job site in progress. 

This field trip was a coordinated effort with Interior Design Construction 2, taught by Tamie Glass.