Approach this public building from the street and you may wonder why the roof has a large pointed projection. As a clue, think of the state it’s located in.
The menacing look of a spear-like extension projects from the front of Austin City Hall and at certain times the sun reflects off the copper cladding causing it to shine. Think about official animals of Texas, with one being the armadillo, and this pointed shaft cantilevered over a busy road represents the mammal’s tail.
You might think that such a creative design is unusual for a government building, but Austin City Hall was designed to be unique in many ways to mirror the city’s profile of being casual and informal.
Walk around the building to appreciate its disjointed positioning and use of construction materials. Limestone, copper, glass and concrete come together to produce a welcoming and informal appearance, which is what architect Antoine Predock had in mind to reflect the openness of the city. In fact, passersby can see city council meetings taking place to promote transparency in government.
Enter the building with its bronze ceiling and four-story open space that is intersected with walkways connecting floor levels. The coolness of the building comes from melting ice that is made the night before when electricity is cheaper and the fountain outside recycles used water.
Shade inside the building is provided by strategic placement of solar panels on the roof and recycled materials were often used in the construction, so it’s not surprising that this structure is certified as being a green building.
At the back of the building is a more serene setting on the shores of Lady Bird Lake. Take a tour of the building and its grounds to see such sights as a descendant of Austin’s oldest known tree, the Treaty Oak that dates back 500 years, and walk out on the observation deck located under the armadillo’s tail.
Enjoy the outdoor space with its terraces that further accentuate the deconstructivist-style of the building.
Be sure to inquire what performances or concerts are scheduled at the amphitheater.
Austin City Hall, closed on weekends, is located on West Second Street with parking under the building on Guadalupe Street. Pre-arranged tours are made by contacting city hall by phone or through its website.
