Firm: Sixthriver Architects
Brief: To craft a 17-story $60 million privately owned residence hall. "Since our client is based in Austin where the university is located, they wanted this property to be their flagship student housing project," says Jill Lung, Sixthriver's director of interior design and shareholder. "We encompassed the newest technology, amenities, and support for the university living and learning experience."
Aesthetic: "University of Texas students take great pride in their school and have a strong alumni base, so we wanted to creatively incorporate the school mascot, the longhorn, and the school colors, burnt orange and white," Lung says. The lobby's modern, comfortable, and durable design also features porcelain tile flooring, textured limestone veneers, and a cedar plank ceiling.
Highlights: Locally sourced artwork that weaves in Austin's music scene and culture: a visible central movie theater area that features game consoles ("We knew the Millennial residents like to be interactive, social, and seen, so to incorporate all three of these elements we encapsulated the theater in glass," Lung explained); and outdoor spaces with sweeping views of the city's downtown skyline and the university's campus.
