[mars-man]

Speaking of 360... What's up with all the wrapping on the previously bare railings? I'm guessing some kind of weatherproofing is being applied to the balconies themselves?

[Saddle Man]

Alex, don’t be alarmed-- but what the hell are you talking about? :shrug:

Dollars to donuts, he's talking about me. Apparently if you're gay and have facial hair (or hair any where else for that matter), you get labeled as a 'bear'. It's a whole subculture of often fat and/or hairy guys and their chasers.

[arbeiter]

Dollars to donuts, he's talking about me. Apparently if you're gay and have facial hair (or hair any where else for that matter), you get labeled as a 'bear'. It's a whole subculture of often fat and/or hairy guys and their chasers.

I assumed he was, but kept my mouth shut, because I didn't know if you were gay or not.

The bear title isn't usually reserved for obviously skinny guys with facial hair, though, it should be said. I've been called a cub before, and I really resent it. It actually made me stop wearing a light beard and cutting my hair short.

[MichaelB]

I imagine that will be one of the last things they do before removing the crane, since it looks like the spire would be in the way.

Greg mentioned that on our meet-up.... it will come just under the crane so they are waiting until the last moment!

[MichaelB]

Arn't labels fun (says the guy spoted carrying the freitag bag....oops....grrrrr!)

[alexjon]

I assumed he was, but kept my mouth shut, because I didn't know if you were gay or not.

The bear title isn't usually reserved for obviously skinny guys with facial hair, though, it should be said. I've been called a cub before, and I really resent it. It actually made me stop wearing a light beard and cutting my hair short.

It's rarely about body weight anymore, anyway, especially in reaction to the overuse as a divisive label back in the day; and, I should note, it is rarely meant as an insult. It's a sort of recent reclamation of the term to bring it back in line with the original light-hearted direction of the term.

Although I know several straight people who refer to themselves as a "bear" or "otter", I apologize for insulting you so gravely.

[arbeiter]

It's rarely about body weight anymore, anyway, especially in reaction to the overuse as a divisive label back in the day; and, I should note, it is rarely meant as an insult. It's a sort of recent reclamation of the term to bring it back in line with the original light-hearted direction of the term.

Although I know several straight people who refer to themselves as a "bear" or "otter", I apologize for insulting you so gravely.

You didn't insult me, I think you mistook what I said. I personally resent the label as applied to me, because it is often applied to overweight guys or really hairy guys, and I am neither. For some reason, as I have broad shoulders, and kind of short, and wore my hair short with a short beard, and was gay, was called that. You would be surprised how many people, online or in a bar, would say something stupid like 'woof' or try to think that I liked leather or something.

[alexjon]

You didn't insult me, I think you mistook what I said. I personally resent the label as applied to me, because it is often applied to overweight guys or really hairy guys, and I am neither. For some reason, as I have broad shoulders, and kind of short, and wore my hair short with a short beard, and was gay, was called that. You would be surprised how many people, online or in a bar, would say something stupid like 'woof' or try to think that I liked leather or something.

Mistakes happen, of course.

[Goothrey]

http://youtube.com/watch?v=NYQM17JSyoU

*EDIT*whoops, fixed

[JRCool]

I mean, thats cool and all, but thats not our memorial stadium, lol.

[Saddle Man]

I didn't take it as insult, I just don't prefer the term. :) There are many types of 'bears': fat, thin, gay, straight, Daddy, muscle, leather, etc. For more info on 'bears', consult your local library.

What's going on at the Omni Hotel? There's a very tall crane at San Jacinto and 8th. I can't tell if things are be placed on the roof or taken off the roof.

[DrewDizzle]

http://barkbarkwoofwoof.blogspot.com/Yogi%20Bear%20Cropped%2012-11-05.JPG

hi

[arbeiter]

'ey boo boo!

"gee, yogi, i don't know if mr. ranger would like that."

[OfCourse]

Some shots I've taken over the past few days...

360 from the north side of the capitol
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2120/2122977993_29c01fa01b_b.jpg

The Sabine
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2013/2123753316_44cf57a2df_b.jpg

Some of the condos/apts off I-35
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2092/2123756378_930f9c8deb_b.jpg

[arbeiter]

nice shots - i haven't seen the eastside condos before.

are they installing balconies on the sabine?

[MichaelB]

nice shots - i haven't seen the eastside condos before.

are they installing balconies on the sabine?

What you are looking at is a new apt complex just south of 11th st.... the land in the foreground to the right will be condos will soon be condos. And, yes , the lone house will stay! They have held out thru all the development plans that have come and gone in that area!

Re: Sabine .... yep, they are putting small baclonies on the corner units of the Sabine. (Hey Priller, didn't you say they were only going on the corner units?

[MichaelB]

Some shots I've taken over the past few days...

360 from the north side of the capitol
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2120/2122977993_29c01fa01b_b.jpg



Love this shot of 36o between the Cap and Westgate! It's is cool seeing one of Austin's oldest residential towers next to one of the newest!

[priller]

Re: Sabine .... yep, they are putting small baclonies on the corner units of the Sabine. (Hey Priller, didn't you say they were only going on the corner units?

Yes, actual balconies only on NW and SE corners. The others will have "balconettes", which are really good mostly for plants or something like that.

[LoneStarMike]

What you are looking at is a new apt complex just south of 11th st....

Yes, those are the Robertson Hill Apartments. Here's a photo I took on November 27 of the east-facing units along the back of the complex.

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff158/LoneStarMike/11-27-2007/RobertsonHillApartments.jpg

The units at the front of the development that face west have nice views of downtown. These next four photos were taken from in front of the development.

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff158/LoneStarMike/11-27-2007/I35EastView3.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff158/LoneStarMike/11-27-2007/I35EastView2.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff158/LoneStarMike/11-27-2007/Sheraton1.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff158/LoneStarMike/11-27-2007/Sheraton2.jpg

the land in the foreground to the right will be condos will soon be condos.

Yeah, that's right near the French Legation. The lot sits between the French Legation and I-35 and overlooks the highway and offers nice views of downtown, It's been fenced off and is slated to be developed as condominiums called The Skyline.

The next two photos are of the French Legation at 802 San Marcos St. - the oldest building in Austin. It currently is known for having scenic views of downtown, but I think the Skyline will block most or all of that view.

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff158/LoneStarMike/11-27-2007/FrenchLegation1.jpg


http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff158/LoneStarMike/11-27-2007/FrenchLegation2.jpg

Imagine moving into a brand new condo with a 170 year old building next door. Who says old and new can't co-exist? :)

Nearby is another modest home with a million dollar view.

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff158/LoneStarMike/11-27-2007/EastAustinHome.jpg

[DTAustin]

Yeah, that's right near the French Legation. The lot sits between the French Legation and I-35 and overlooks the highway and offers nice views of downtown, It's been fenced off and is slated to be developed as condominiums called The Skyline.

I believe the Skyline is dead. A friend had a $1000 deposit on that development for a few years. Nothing happened until recently when he was told that the investment/development partners broke up and he was refunded his deposit.

[texastarkus]

Thursday, December 20, 2007 - 2:17 PM CST
Whitley Printing moving south to make room for downtown high-rise

Austin Business Journal - by A.J. Mistretta

The Whitley Printing Co., which has called downtown Austin home for more than a half-century, is relocating and expanding its operations in South Austin.

The business-to-business printing company is trading in its 38,000-square-foot plant at 301 Brazos Street for an expansive new 48,000-square-foot headquarters at 4129 Commercial Center Drive. The company has inked a 10-year lease with an option to expand into an adjacent building if necessary. The move should be complete in the next couple weeks and will make room for the new 21c high-rise on Brazos that will feature a 230-room hotel, contemporary museum and 209 condos.

Whitley anticipates an 8.5 percent rise in revenue in the next year via additional business and plans to add to its 78-person staff to accommodate that growth. The company already has employees working in two shifts and plans to add a third shift in the near future.

Whitley CEO Kevin Cassis says the company will commemorate the 301 Brazos plant by recreating its façade in the lobby of the new building, complete with street lanterns and planters from the downtown location.

The new offices are designed to accommodate maximum efficiency and organized workflow, says Cassis. Though bigger than the existing space, the new location will actually use the same amount of energy, according to the company.

"Every measure has been taken to ensure that we will be operating out of a highly sustainable facility, from our recycling and air purification methods, to the lighting, heating and cooling system," says Cassis.

[MichaelB]

Yep, they actually completed the move this week! Ready for the wrecking ball! Did ya know the Whitley building was another car dealership once upon a long time ago? It is amazing how many former car dealerships have become recent developments! For those who haven't been around that long. The entire "west end" was "motor mile" in Austin at one point.

As I recall (this is off the top of my head...please correct or add on!) By the 80's most of the dealerships had moved..... empty, or used car lots. I believe the first to redevelope in the area was the Waterloo records site. Then the next major was the Old Whole Foods HQ (where REI and Bookpeople are) Then the west side of Lamar between 5th and 6th. (A tire dealer and Apple Motors) That actually pushed the used car lot ( Apple motors) to the lot that Austin City Lofts now occupies. So then came Whole Foods, Austin City Lofts, Monarch. (Monarch site was Miguels Imports... which was previouly on the Austin City Lofts lot.... after Apple motors left.) Before Miguels occupied the Monarch site there was Straight music.... before then... used cars! Notice also there are more old car lots waiting to be buldozed for one of the Novare towers. Amazing how much land stood vacant for years that was all car lots!

[MichaelB]

double post

[bigdogc]

alright, so 21c and austonian are at 99% for sure. great news! :banana:

[KevinFromTexas]

I don't know if this has been posted anywhere yet, but it's fairly new. It's a video of the proposed Four Seasons Residences. It's pretty slick and a very good sales tool.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQuRYiQ-OoQ

That's pretty sweet. You guys better be giving that a 5 star rating.

I don't know what to make of the height of that building though. From one of the renderings it looks to be almost 500 feet tall, but there it looks to be about level, or even shorter than One Congress Plaza. I do like the design though, it's starting to grow on me. I'm still hoping this one happens.

[KevinFromTexas]

Here's a few pics I took during my hiatus.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150016EDIT.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150018EDIT.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150019EDIT.jpg

Fiddlin' with features.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150019EDIT2.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150021EDIT.jpg

I ran up the observation hill at Town Lake Park. It was so cold up there that day. I think the temperature was around 38F, but man, that wind was numbing.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150031EDIT.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150033EDIT.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150035EDIT.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150056EDIT.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150057EDIT.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150041EDIT.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150041EDIT2.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150045EDIT.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150064EDIT.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150064EDIT2.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150076EDIT.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/KevinFromTexas/Austin%202007%20forum%20meet/P1150067EDIT.jpg

[LoneStarMike]

I do like the design though, it's starting to grow on me. I'm still hoping this one happens.


FWIW, in the article about the Broken spoke, (http://www.statesman.com/news/content/news/stories/local/12/21/1221spoke.html?imw=Y) the Austin American-Statesman reported:

Ardent Residential plans to break ground next month on a 32-story condo tower adjacent to the Four Seasons on East Cesar Chavez Street and is already demolishing the 138-unit Stoneridge apartment complex at 1500 S. Lamar Blvd., where it is building 300 apartments with ground-floor retail space.

[KevinFromTexas]

Here's the skinny on the Yarings department store work that you guys were wondering about.

Click on the link for full article and a rendering.

From the Austin American-Statesman
http://www.statesman.com/business/content/business/stories/realestate/12/21/1221yarings.html

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Congress Avenue landmark gets a makeover

By Lori Hawkins
AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAF

Friday, December 21, 2007

The historic Yaring's department store on Congress Avenue, which has sat empty for nine years, is getting a dramatic redo.

The building at 506 Congress Ave., which was constructed in the late 1880s, is best known for the store Jacob Schmidt opened in 1936.

Yaring's, once a pillar of downtown commerce, closed in 1998. A forlorn "For Lease" sign has hung across its pink stucco facade for years.

[priller]

Interesting that they're redoing Yaring's without any specific tenants lined up. At least they want to keep the ground floor retail, which would be great.

And good catch on the news about the 4 Seasons. That will be great to see it finally get under way.

2008 will be a banner year for downtown construction.

[GoldenBoot]

...I don't know what to make of the height of that building though. From one of the renderings it looks to be almost 500 feet tall, but there it looks to be about level, or even shorter than One Congress Plaza. I do like the design though, it's starting to grow on me. I'm still hoping this one happens.

The Four Seasons Residences building will be between 400' and 410' tall. I do not have a grade elevation of the new structure, but I know the height to the structural roofline will be 860 MSL (or 860' above mean sea level).

Merry Christmas!

[MichaelB]

FWIW, in the article about the Broken spoke, (http://www.statesman.com/news/content/news/stories/local/12/21/1221spoke.html?imw=Y) the Austin American-Statesman reported:

YES.... I SAW THAT! you beat me to it! thanks for posting it!

[Jdawgboy]

alright, so 21c and austonian are at 99% for sure. great news! :banana:

The Austonian is 100% go, its been 100% go for awhile now. If you havn't been downtown lately by 2nd and Congress, you may actually notice construction going on at the Austonian site. They have a cane base ready to be installed. Im not trying to sound rude or anything but if anybody has doubts about the Austionian now, maybe you should not worry about it anymore. Its happening.:yes:

[Gallup]

The Austonian is 100% go, its been 100% go for awhile now. If you havn't been downtown lately by 2nd and Congress, you may actually notice construction going on at the Austonian site. They have a cane base ready to be installed. Im not trying to sound rude or anything but if anybody has doubts about the Austionian now, maybe you should not worry about it anymore. Its happening.:yes:

They also have the base of their crane ready to go. It's already encased in concrete. It is at an odd angle which leads me to believe that it will climb the tower on its northeast side.

[bigdogc]

7rio has started to advertise via google ads. I hope they end up doing that one. I like it the most.

In other news, why is AMLI taking so long? Have people even moved in yet? They topped out over 6 months ago. Any explanations?

[bigdogc]

news from austintowers.net!!


"The Beginning of a Congress Avenue Comeback:

Prior to 1960, Congress avenue was the center of retail and commerce for the City of Austin. Over the last 5 decades, Congress Avenue has been in a steady state of decline as city residents increasingly looked to suburbs for shopping and commerce. Today, there are only 13 retail business on the prime central stretch between the Capital and the lake.


With the creation of the thriving second street district and the arrival of a new breed of downtown condo residents, Congress avenue may be on the upswing. Over the next few years, the Austonian and a sprawling multi-Marriott complex will link Congress Avenue to the Second street district and the convention center dining district.

Today, a first step towards the revitalization of Congress avenue was announced. After 9 years of closure, the historic Yaring's department store on Congress between 5th and 6th is being redeveloped into retail and commercial space -- bringing new life to a shuttered eye sore on a key downtown block. "

[Lextx97]

Long time lurker here. Thought I'd add a contribution. I was in my office this morning in the Wells Fargo tower and thought I'd snap a few amatuer pictures from our vantage points in the upper floors. Did a lot of non-optical zooming, so l lost some resolution. I was hoping to take more, but unfortunately I had not deleted from the memory card some remaining pictures of a recent NYC trip. Anyway, here ya go:

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207080.jpg

I'll have to get on the exterior window washers for this one.
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207081.jpg

Condo developments on east side of I-35
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207070.jpg

A peek of Altavida (1108 Lavaca? in the foreground)
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207066.jpg

360
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207076.jpg

Another 360
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207069.jpg

Monarch and Spring Site
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207068.jpg

Looking down 15th Street and Enfield
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207074.jpg

West Campus Cranes
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207072.jpg

Monstrocity of a parking garage in West Campus
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207075.jpg

Dobie and UT Tower (New UT Hotel and Conference Center partial lower right)
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207073.jpg

LaVista on Lavaca Site (DKRTMS North Endzone Cranes in the background)
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207071.jpg

360 and Monarch from 3rd Floor Parking Garage (with guywires from moontower at 15th and Guadalupe)
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207083.jpg

360 from the Garage
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207082.jpg

Capitol (Doubletree in the foreground)
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207078.jpg

Another City's skyline that will be getting some very conspicuous additions in the next few years
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207030.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207034.jpg

[pyropius]

Monstrocity of a parking garage in West Campus
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/Lextx97/Dec2207075.jpg


What the @#!$ is that?

[MichaelB]

What the @#!$ is that?

Isn't that hideous!>!>!>!>???? It is the parking deck for "the Quarters". Can;t belive they were allowed to build it. I went in the office there and told the manager how heinous it is.... she just stood there with her clueless mouth open! OK, I know it did no good but I felt better!

[evergreen1]

Yep, they actually completed the move this week! Ready for the wrecking ball! Did ya know the Whitley building was another car dealership once upon a long time ago? It is amazing how many former car dealerships have become recent developments! For those who haven't been around that long. The entire "west end" was "motor mile" in Austin at one point.

As I recall (this is off the top of my head...please correct or add on!) By the 80's most of the dealerships had moved..... empty, or used car lots. I believe the first to redevelope in the area was the Waterloo records site. Then the next major was the Old Whole Foods HQ (where REI and Bookpeople are) Then the west side of Lamar between 5th and 6th. (A tire dealer and Apple Motors) That actually pushed the used car lot ( Apple motors) to the lot that Austin City Lofts now occupies. So then came Whole Foods, Austin City Lofts, Monarch. (Monarch site was Miguels Imports... which was previouly on the Austin City Lofts lot.... after Apple motors left.) Before Miguels occupied the Monarch site there was Straight music.... before then... used cars! Notice also there are more old car lots waiting to be buldozed for one of the Novare towers. Amazing how much land stood vacant for years that was all car lots!

The present site of the Nokonah was formerly "Honest Ed's Rent a Sled' and before that Roy Butler sold used cars on that site before he become the Ford Dealer at 6th and Lamar...now Book People site..(old Whole foods)

The building that has Chico's and Mecca at 6th and Lamar also formerly used car site

[MichaelB]

The present site of the Nokonah was formerly "Honest Ed's Rent a Sled' and before that Roy Butler sold used cars on that site before he become the Ford Dealer at 6th and Lamar...now Book People site..(old Whole foods)

The building that has Chico's and Mecca at 6th and Lamar also formerly used car site

yeah, that;s right......"Honest Ed's" ! The chico site was "Apple Motors" then Miguels move in for a brief moment.

[KevinFromTexas]

Very cool pictures Lextx97. I've always wanted to see the view from the Wells Fargo Tower. Great angle showing some density through the heart of downtown.

Isn't that hideous!>!>!>!>???? It is the parking deck for "the Quarters". Can;t belive they were allowed to build it. I went in the office there and told the manager how heinous it is.... she just stood there with her clueless mouth open! OK, I know it did no good but I felt better!

Haha, good for you! :jester:

[Mopacs]

Here are some new shots of downtown Austin , highlighting 360's dramatic impact on the skyline from several key vantage points.

...lets start with a few shots from the East, along the shores of Town Lake (between I-35 and Longhorn Dam)

http://images34.fotki.com/v1080/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9814-vi.jpg

http://images31.fotki.com/v1055/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9815-vi.jpg

From I-35 and Riverside

http://images33.fotki.com/v1072/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9783-vi.jpg

http://images31.fotki.com/v1055/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9769-vi.jpg

Here are a few shots from the soccer fields at Zilker Park (now partially occupied by the Christmas Trail of Lights)

http://images33.fotki.com/v1067/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9508-vi.jpg

http://images32.fotki.com/v1063/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9499-vi.jpg

The following were taking along the Mopac freeway, heading southwest

http://images32.fotki.com/v1059/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9535-vi.jpg

http://images33.fotki.com/v1067/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9526-vi.jpg

http://images31.fotki.com/v1055/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9522-vi.jpg

From Barton Creek Mall

http://images31.fotki.com/v1053/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9607-vi.jpg

http://images31.fotki.com/v1056/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9616-vi.jpg

http://images33.fotki.com/v1068/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9586-vi.jpg

http://images32.fotki.com/v1062/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9588-vi.jpg

These are taken from the Gaines Ranch overpass above Mopac. Downtown rises above the Barton Creek valley

http://images16.fotki.com/v281/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9705-vi.jpg

http://images31.fotki.com/v1051/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9691-vi.jpg

http://images31.fotki.com/v1056/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9710-vi.jpg

http://images33.fotki.com/v1070/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9702-vi.jpg

From Lamar at Cesar Chavez (future site of Gables project in the foreground)

http://images33.fotki.com/v1072/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9495-vi.jpg

Now for some individual building updates...

Legacy...Floor 5 of 30+

http://images33.fotki.com/v1073/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9859-vi.jpg

This guy is going to go up extremely fast

http://images31.fotki.com/v1055/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9862-vi.jpg

The Shore... Interesting reddish-facade, on the east-side of the tower. I actually like it.

http://images32.fotki.com/v1059/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9849-vi.jpg

360 Closeups

http://images32.fotki.com/v1065/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9937-vi.jpg

http://images34.fotki.com/v1078/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9938-vi.jpg

http://images33.fotki.com/v1067/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9949-vi.jpg

http://images34.fotki.com/v1076/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9955-vi.jpg

http://images32.fotki.com/v1064/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_0049-vi.jpg

The crane-less Monarch

http://images31.fotki.com/v1049/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_0056-vi.jpg

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http://images31.fotki.com/v1055/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_0068-vi.jpg

And now for some Miscellaneous shots...

This is the Palisades office tower along Loop 360 west at Bee Cave Rd. This guy REALLY stands out, visible from much of SW Austin. It hasnt yet reached its top floor.

http://images33.fotki.com/v1072/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9658-vi.jpg

http://images31.fotki.com/v1053/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9663-vi.jpg

The Revamped Austin Music Hall, next door to 360

http://images33.fotki.com/v1067/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_0041-vi.jpg

View south along Guadalupe, between 38th and 29th streets... West Campus projects are making themselves known

http://images34.fotki.com/v1077/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9355-vi.jpg

Another southward-facing shot down Gualupe, from 27th St

http://images31.fotki.com/v1051/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9367-vi.jpg

Looking south along Colorado St

http://images31.fotki.com/v1041/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9397-vi.jpg

Frosty

http://images34.fotki.com/v1081/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9431-vi.jpg

Ladybird (Town) Lake

http://images32.fotki.com/v1059/photos/5/54967/4687436/DSC_9816-vi.jpg

[hookem]

Great shots, thanks for posting them!

I was going to try to take some shots of Palisades west, because I drive by it every day.. but you beat me to it. It's already 6 stories, as tall as I thought it was going to be, but it keeps going up. Anyone know how high? It is already the most prominent building on 360 other than the Arboretum area, because of the ridge it sits on. I think it is visible all the way from east of I35.

Although, I don't know how 360 will be able to handle the traffic of the half-million sq ft in office space which is being built right now at Mopac/2244... Palisades West I & II are 360K and Las Cimas ??? is 145K. 360 is already a parking lot during rush hour, and 2244 still drops to only 1 lane because of lack of turn lane through Westlake.

[Mopacs]

Great shots, thanks for posting them!

I was going to try to take some shots of Palisades west, because I drive by it every day.. but you beat me to it. It's already 6 stories, as tall as I thought it was going to be, but it keeps going up. Anyone know how high? It is already the most prominent building on 360 other than the Arboretum area, because of the ridge it sits on. I think it is visible all the way from east of I35.

Although, I don't know how 360 will be able to handle the traffic of the half-million sq ft in office space which is being built right now at Mopac/2244... Palisades West I & II are 360K and Las Cimas ??? is 145K. 360 is already a parking lot during rush hour, and 2244 still drops to only 1 lane because of lack of turn lane through Westlake.

Thanks!

Yep, the ridge makes the Palisades towers really stand out. The crane for the project can bee seen from literally all of central Austin (you'll see it on the far right of my last photo of Town Lake/ I-35 bridge).

I believe the lower floors are probably parking levels, with the upper 5 being the office building levels. I'm guessing there are at least 2-3 parking floors. So should be of similar height to the taller Terrace office towers across Mopac from Barton Creek Mall (six floors of offices above several parking levels).

I can only imagine how Loop 360 is at rush hour. Luckily I do not have to drive that stretch, but with all the growth and traffic signals, it must be a mess. Unfortunately, there is not much help on the horizon, since the CTRMA has put off plans for adding toll lanes in the median (at least in the near term).

[Gallup]

Thanks!

Yep, the ridge makes the Palisades towers really stand out. The crane for the project can bee seen from literally all of central Austin (you'll see it on the far right of my last photo of Town Lake/ I-35 bridge).

I believe the lower floors are probably parking levels, with the upper 5 being the office building levels. I'm guessing there are at least 2-3 parking floors. So should be of similar height to the taller Terrace office towers across Mopac from Barton Creek Mall (six floors of offices above several parking levels).

I can only imagine how Loop 360 is at rush hour. Luckily I do not have to drive that stretch, but with all the growth and traffic signals, it must be a mess. Unfortunately, there is not much help on the horizon, since the CTRMA has put off plans for adding toll lanes in the median (at least in the near term).

Good for the westsiders and their traffic. If any market in Austin is home to more people who can afford to be leaders and live downtown it’s these people. My hope is that 360 becomes a parking lot for 4 hours a day and all the people who live out there rethink what suburban life has become. Then they can literally park their cars downtown in a building like 360 or any of the other spectacular towers going up around town and walk to work. Maybe some of the big shots who make the big decisions could then move their businesses downtown as well. :yes:

[bigdogc]

if parking gets too bad out there, the leaders will just do away with the lights. 360 could move a lot faster with some simple changes.

[hookem]

I can only imagine how Loop 360 is at rush hour. Luckily I do not have to drive that stretch, but with all the growth and traffic signals, it must be a mess. Unfortunately, there is not much help on the horizon, since the CTRMA has put off plans for adding toll lanes in the median (at least in the near term).
Well, right now... rush hour means sitting at about 2 green light cycles AFTER you've reached the front of the line at the light. No place to go because the traffic on the other side of the light hasn't even moved enough for a few cars to fit in... People turning right or left onto 360 left are backed up worse. Cars exiting 2244 or 2222 to head out to the further west developments are backed up on the shoulder or blocking traffic. People passing on the shoulder all the time, even with the threat of a $500 ticket. It's really bad... but so far, still only rush hour times. After 7pm or before 4pm is OK. Morning rush doesn't seem quite as bad.

[KevinFromTexas]

My mom works on Bee Cave Road near Westlake Drive within West Lake Hills just down the street from West Lake High School. She drive's 360 five days a week to and from work. She says it usually takes 30 minutes either way, even though we only live 5 miles from there. She usually takes William Cannon to Mopac, to 360, then up Bee Cave Road. The distance is about the same from us to downtown, but the roads that lead there are more winding which adds to the time.

[DrewDizzle]

My mom works on Bee Cave Road near Westlake Drive within West Lake Hills just down the street from West Lake High School. She drive's 360 five days a week to and from work. She says it usually takes 30 minutes either way, even though we only live 5 miles from there. She usually takes William Cannon to Mopac, to 360, then up Bee Cave Road. The distance is about the same from us to downtown, but the roads that lead there are more winding which adds to the time.

30min for 5 miles? Yuck.

I used to live on south Congress but work in the Arboretum. Going to work was a bit troublesome but getting home was a fucking nightmare. Southbound 360 is a nightmare starting at 183....

[KevinFromTexas]

Geographically it's 5 miles. The actual driving distance is about 10 miles I believe.

[KevinFromTexas]

Found this on Palisades West in Austin. One of the buildings will be 7 floors tall while the other will have 5 floors.

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0EIN/is_2006_Dec_4/ai_n16882015

[Jdawgboy]

Legacy is going to shoot up like a rocket seriously. Whatever construction type they are doing, its definatly much faster than the other types. Unbelieveable that in just a few weeks it has reached the 5th floor already.

[JAM]

Legacy is going to shoot up like a rocket seriously. Whatever construction type they are doing, its definatly much faster than the other types. Unbelieveable that in just a few weeks it has reached the 5th floor already.

Pretty sure the floors/walls are prefab concrete. The walls look concrete, rather than the normal steel/wallboard. Everything is very square, not much design differences, but going up fast.

[priller]

I don't think it's prefab. Another poster on here a few weeks ago mentioned that it looks like they're using a technique called "tunnel-forming". I read up a little bit on it and that looks to be the case. With tunnel-forming you can pour up to 3 walls and a floor at one time. It's a technique designed for speed and it certainly seems to be working here.

[JAM]

I don't think it's prefab. Another poster on here a few weeks ago mentioned that it looks like they're using a technique called "tunnel-forming". I read up a little bit on it and that looks to be the case. With tunnel-forming you can pour up to 3 walls and a floor at one time. It's a technique designed for speed and it certainly seems to be working here.

I wouldn't know. The reason I said prefab is because I saw some ~10x10 slabs being lifted via crane. Since I did not look close, its possible those where just the re-bar/steel and they later poured the concrete. I do know who I can ask, so if I remember, I'll ask him if he has noticed.

[bigdogc]

wow, legacy and altavida might have similar move-in dates with construction speed....apartment construction :koko:

[priller]

Drove around to a looked at a few sites today at lunch. Didn't have my camera with me :(. But there's lots of progress.

Legacy -- working on 6th floor already. Going up really fast.

Altavida -- working on 8th floor now. Also moving fast now that it's out of the ground. Should be taller than CSC by next week.

Spring -- One small section is now above ground level.

Austonian -- Base of the crane is in place. It's sitting at a funny angle, I assume to match the curve of the building at the point. I'll try to diagram it later. They were hooking up power for it today while I was there, so hopefully we'll see the crane itself very soon. Only using two of the small vertical shaft diggers now, so maybe the work on the piles or caissons or whatever they're called will soon be done.

[MichaelB]

Austonian -- Base of the crane is in place. It's sitting at a funny angle, I assume to match the curve of the building at the point.

I noticed that.... I was wondering if that was it's final position it is approx at a 25ish degree angle. Anyone know what that is about?

[priller]

Legacy. Already working on the 6th floor. This building is going up very quickly. They even have 2 of those yellow cement pump things on site.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2209/2147078669_1686ee6fc1_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2094/2147873092_61581d6273_o.jpg


Altavida. Working on the 8th floor now. About at the same height as the CSC building next door.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2084/2147872818_9b9f9ab792_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2011/2147077351_94827e20bf_o.jpg


Austonian. This is the crane base. I tried to take this photo perpendicular to the site, so you can see the angle it's sitting at. Hopefully it will be clear.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2028/2147076947_147c103055_o.jpg

The red square I overlaid on my Austonian model is about where I'm estimating the crane will go. Just eyeballing it.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2042/2147939526_3e19d9f566_o.jpg


MACC, with Shore in the background:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2417/2147873684_ccbe871bf6_o.jpg


They appeared to be installing some kind of giant disco ball at Pure on 6th Street. Not at all sure what's going on there:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2272/2147077753_dc9c38d96c_o.jpg


My son came with me today. I'm sure he was bored out of his mind. Every time I would tell him some fascinating fact about an upcoming building he would just shrug his shoulders.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2323/2147872572_5c1c8bbaf2_o.jpg


Clouds were nice today:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2082/2147871762_349800f6b3_o.jpg

[greenbelt]

Awesome pics priller, you've got a great eye! Here's to a great 2008. :cheers:

[Wheelingman04]

Wonderful photos. Austin's skyline is going to be so impressive in the coming years if not already.

[KevinFromTexas]

My son came with me today. I'm sure he was bored out of his mind. Every time I would tell him some fascinating fact about an upcoming building he would just shrug his shoulders.

Haha, they don't understand us! Actually though, I do hear from people who are at least curious about what "that new building" will be. Or how tall it'll be. My brother and sister and her boyfriend usually ask. My brother works out in North Austin off Parmer and I-35, so he sees downtown everyday. Every once in a while he'll ask about a building wanting to know what it is. No one I know is as enthusiastic about the subject as we are though.

Great pics by the way. Good to see the crane installed at The Austonian, I guess they'll probably just have one. And they should be raising the crane soon at Altavida. The building is getting pretty close to it.

[Mopacs]

Great shots Priller!

The big 'disco' ball going up on 6th is our version of the New York, Times Square ball drop. I've been to a few of our New Years' celebrations.... a decent imitation of the real thing :)

[Jdawgboy]

Great shots Priller!

The big 'disco' ball going up on 6th is our version of the New York, Times Square ball drop. I've been to a few of our New Years' celebrations.... a decent imitation of the real thing :)

THat is the second year I think that they did that though I could be wrong. I didn't make it to 6th for New Years Eve cause I was on the South First street bridge watching the Fireworks. Are they still going to do the rising star too?

[MichaelB]

Priller....... thanks for making the crane at the Austionian make sense!

[Blakesalot!]

Great pics by the way. Good to see the crane installed at The Austonian, I guess they'll probably just have one.

I got an email from the Austonian sales office awhile back that indicated construction would actually include two tower cranes. :)

[Mopacs]

I got an email from the Austonian sales office awhile back that indicated construction would actually include two tower cranes. :)

You know, I was just about to say. The footprint of the tower reminds me of the Mansion on Peachtree in Atlanta's Buckhead district, which was constructed with 2 tower cranes. Though not as tall, and with more of a tapered design, there are still a lot of similarities.

http://www.atlantamustang.com/images/myspace/construction/1.jpg

Pic by jcmjjc (http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/member.php?u=27380)in Atlanta forum

http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=101345&page=4&highlight=mansion+peachtree

[TXAlex]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2337/2152355634_366df8a41c_b.jpg

[Saddle Man]

That's a nice looking building.

[Jdawgboy]

Yea that building does have similarities with the Austonian. Neat pic Mopacs. I can't wait to actually see the crane get put up. I would assume within the next 2 weeks after New Years?

[KevinFromTexas]

Interesting (about the cranes). I had assumed they'd only use one, because cranes are actually in short supply worldwide right now. Can't wait to see the cranes go up. REALLY can't wait to see it rise with the cranes.

[DanE008]

Hopefully with two cranes it will help it to rise more quickly, and I hope they put up a webcam soon.

[Strayone]

Yeah it would be a treat to have a webcam for The Austonian. The 360 cam is the only one I know of that has occurred here in Austin, so I tend to think it is fairly rare for a developer to have. Anyone heard any news of such cam for The Austonian?

What a great year we have had watching a fair number of projects go up, this forum is a gem and I commend all who make it so appealing. With that I wish all of you a wonderful New Year, Stray :cheers:

[texboy]

I start my internship on The Austonian Thursday! Cannot WAIT!

[KevinFromTexas]

^ Cool, and congrats!

[priller]

Please keep us posted, texboy. Sounds like a great opportunity for you.

Yes, I think 2008 will be a great year for Austin. With so many buildings going up the skyline will change rather dramatically. There are some threads on the forum here asking which city had it's skyline change the most in the past year. I think Austin will certainly be in the running next year. It will be exciting!

[greenbelt]

Yep, Lots to look forward to in 2008 on the Austin Forum. Happy New Year Everyone!! :cheers:

[KevinFromTexas]

Happy New Year! Here's to yacking about more skyscrapers in the new year. :cheers:

[KevinFromTexas]

Very cheesy interactive fireworks flash program here. Launch fireworks over downtown Austin.

*Click for cheesiness*
http://www.statesman.com/news/content/life/interactive_sm/12/fireworks.html

[Blakesalot!]

Wow, so realistic! :haha:

[priller]

Here are a few attempts I made trying to Photoshop my Austonian model into an existing skyline photo. As much as I like Google Earth, I was curious if I could make the models look a little more photorealistic. I grabbed a few photos that were posted here for examples.

From I-35 south of Lady Bird lake (original photo by LoneStarMike):
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2289/2154856060_35e0699c42_o.jpg

From Barton Creek mall (original photo by Mopacs):
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2126/2154062047_5ef7ec39c3_o.jpg

From the new park (original photo by Kevin):
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2369/2154856408_3e6a6eefbc_o.jpg

[KevinFromTexas]

Fantastic! Really good job. Looks great.

[bigdogc]

that building will really stick out from far distances like 183 and mopac.

[LoneStarMike]

Fantastic job, priller. I can't wait to see the real thing.

[Dragonfire]

Wow, great job! The building will really stand out on I-35.

[Mopacs]

Fantastic job Priller! Great use of your models. Any chance you can fit a few others in these pics?

[priller]

Fantastic job Priller! Great use of your models. Any chance you can fit a few others in these pics?

I'm sure I can.

[priller]

Added W to this one:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2208/2157302678_d64ba3f7ee_o.jpg

[texboy]

I have to say the W is somewhat of a disappointing design....at least compared to the one in Dallas...imo

[Saddle Man]

I concur on the W.

[bigdogc]

wouldnt be suprised if local news put these renderings up sometime. they did it for the austintowers guys.

[Complex01]

I was in Austin for New Years. It was fun, good times. Happy 2008...

:cool:

[MichaelB]

Thanks Priller.... thats just crazy what the Austonian will do to the skyline... Crazy!

Happy New Years Guys!

[Gallup]

I just went by the Austonian and they have blocked off the parking spaces along Congress and are preparing to pour concrete at the end of the spaces (closest to Congress) for the new pedestrian walkway. They will then use the additional space as staging area for the tower. The crane should go up in around two weeks. Whoever has their doubts about this tower, you must be feeling better with each passing day. I know I do. :yes:

[totheskies]

Something about those photos just makes everything right with the world... thanks Gallup!!

BTW, love you guys!

[bigdogc]

I just went by the Austonian and they have blocked off the parking spaces along Congress and are preparing to pour concrete at the end of the spaces (closest to Congress) for the new pedestrian walkway. They will then use the additional space as staging area for the tower. The crane should go up in around two weeks. Whoever has their doubts about this tower, you must be feeling better with each passing day. I know I do. :yes:
i dont have doubts about it going up. but i do have doubts about them securing financing at this point....

[Gallup]

I think I speak for everyone when I say we enjoy your skills priller. Keep on cranking out those great shots and we promise to continue looking at them.

[texboy]

trust me guys, the tower's a go...Im the intern on The Austonian.

[ATXboom]

I think I recall Austonian securing financing about 6 months ago... could probably be sniffed out by a Google hound.

No cranes or cement poored without financing... Almost willing to bet an apendage on this one being full go.

[texboy]

I feel people ignore my posts on here....