Changes in Austin, Texas
Over the summer of 2020, I became increasingly aware of the construction taking place in my South Austin community and throughout Austin as a whole. This project focuses not only on the new downtown buildings of Austin, but also on the old buildings of Austin and how many of those have been repurposed to match Austin’s growth and gentrification. The general aesthetic of buildings throughout Austin as well as the architectural makeup of the newer buildings can be viewed as the intersection of the eclectic essence Austin is known for and the emerging technology industry. I spent my time documenting the balance and juxtaposition between old and new buildings in Austin.
Giddy Ups | 16x24 in. | Matte Paper | Digital Photo
Giddy Ups is referred to as the little biggest stage in Austin, Texas. It was established in 1991 and is one of many places that is at risk of closing due to COVID 19. Not only is it at risk, but it is also being surrounded by new development.
Formerly Pizza Hut | 16x24 in. | Matte Paper | Digital Photo
This building was originally constructed in the traditional 1990’s Pizza Hut style. In 1988, Pizza MGMT, Inc. sold the building to CNL Income Fund III LTD and was subsequently leased back to Pizza MGMT, Inc. to be used as a Pizza Hut. In March 2005, CNL Income Fund III LTD was merged with multiple other companies to create CNF APF Partners LP. CNF APF Partners LP then sold the property to Splendour Investment Properties LLC. The property is now a medical office space.
Previously Café 1626 | 16x24 in. | Matte Paper | Digital Photo
Cafe 1626 was originally established in 1991 and was a “go to” place on Friday and Saturday nights for many local families. It was purchased By Art Goldstein, who continued to run the establishment under its iconic name, Cafe 1626. In the last 1 to 2 years, Goldstein has been re-establishing the restaurant under the umbrella of his other well-known Austin area Pizza restaurant, known as Southside Flying Pizza.
Used to be Hollywood Video | 16x24 in. | Matte Paper | Digital Photo
This building was purchased in March 2009 by DECOM Holdings, LLC, which has a DBA (doing business as) Discount Electronics. The building was formerly a Hollywood Video in the 90s but has maintained the same overall structure since closing.
Austin Central Fire Station No.1 | 16x36 in. | Matte Paper | Digital Photo
Austin’s Central Fire Station No.1 was built in 1938. As downtown Austin grows and updates, the basic structure of the first station has remained. You can see the new Hilton loom over the old and historical fire stations, threatening its existence.
Used to be Albertsons | 16x36 in. | Matte Paper | Digital Photo
This portion of the shopping center was previously leased by Albertson’s LLC. Reminders of Albertsons continues to haunt the shopping center even as Altitude Trampoline Park has taken over as the central feature of the shopping center.
Crow Bar Next to Newer Apartments | 16x36 in. | Matte Paper | Digital Photo
Crow Bar is a popular bar with its main building being original to the area. However, the building is being overshadowed by the new condominium building. Likewise, in the neighborhood directly behind Crow Bar, the original houses are being exchanged for new development townhomes and subdivided lots.
Shell of a Shell | 16x36 in. | Matte Paper | Digital Photo
Clearly, from the prominent color scheme and remnants of gas pumps, this location was not too long ago a Shell gas station. JRD Windshield Repair & Replacement was established in 2009 and located in a temporary manufactured building in the parking lot of this Shell gas station. When the Shell closed its doors, JRD Windshield Repair & Replacement took over the primary building.