Scottish Rite | architecture
Beginning as a design study, this unbuilt project pays homage to the iconic Austin building that sits delicately underneath the tower. Key elements in programming aimed to create a space that fostered the idea of an arts district, promoting not only community, but a way of life. Essentially, our design concept related to the core values of the Austin Scottish Rite Theatre, bringing community together through art.
The biggest design challenge was of course the existing theatre that needed to be incorporated. Our solution was to embrace and preserve the original architecture, juxtaposed by a large modern tower that straddled the structure. The building itself, comprised of an exoskeleton fabric, creates a cradle (or net) of interlocking bands that pay tribute to the Freemason hands that have worked so hard at their craft. This overlay not only created visual interest, but provided an intentional circulation for moments of congregation and collaboration. While this project did not come to fruition, we love the challenges that it posed, the result of the design, and the conversations it sparked, showing promise for the future of Austin’s art scene.
Client: Confidential
Location: Austin, TX
Size: N/A