Duda|Paine Architects completed the 405  Colorado Building Austin with architecture that presents a dynamic image from every direction, yet two prominent outdoor spaces—the street-level entry and the open sky lobby—that reflect the building’s dynamic experience.

A prominent corner in Austin’s established Central Business District presented a unique opportunity to create a signature architecture to match the city’s progressive urban spirit. The sculptural form contrasts glass office levels above an earth-tone, terra cotta podium. The scaled patterning of the terra cotta base echoes the character of the building’s street-level context. The combination of solid cladding and high-performing glass maximizes views, enhances natural daylighting, and provides an energy-conscious building envelope.

The entry level’s generous setback and extended canopy support the area’s established shops, cafes and entertainment venues with seating areas and shade trees. A glass-enclosed elevator system offers vertical vistas that reinforce connections to the city as it conveys users to the amenity level. A break between the parking pedestal and faceted office levels allows for a 2-story sky terrace—a feature unique to the city. The terrace level and a transparent, street-level lobby open the building to the city and allow users a seamless transition from city life to the inspiring and creative work environment cultivated within. The building upholds the City of Austin Great Streets Development Program with expanded sidewalks, street trees, a generous entrance canopy and a mosaic art wall. 405 Colorado’s distinctive form establishes a dynamic new precedent for architecture in the city.

Design: Duda|Paine Architects Photography: Leonid Furmansky

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