A new skyscraper in Austin has redefined the architectural landscape of Texas, securing its title as the tallest building in the Lone Star State. The building, known as Waterline, reaches a height of 1,025 feet across its 74 stories, making it the tallest structure in the Southern United States. Seth Johnston, the executive vice president of Lincoln Property Company, confirmed, ‘At 1,025 feet, Waterline is the tallest building in Texas.’
Designed by the globally recognized architectural firm KPF (Kohn Pedersen Fox), Waterline joins the ranks of prestigious structures like One Vanderbilt and Hudson Yards in New York City. Developed in collaboration with Kairoi Residential, the construction concluded in August, two months ahead of its planned completion.
The mixed-use tower features 352 residential units on its upper floors and a 252-room hotel, the 1 Hotel Austin, which has recently opened. Additionally, 24 floors of office space are available for lease, highlighting the building’s diverse functionality.
Challenges in Office Space Utilization
The unveiling of Waterline occurs amid a climate of high office vacancy rates across Texas, with Austin recording a 25.2 percent vacancy rate according to Moody’s data. This places Austin among the top three cities with the highest vacancy rates in the U.S., closely following Houston and Dallas.
Gordon Gill, an architect known for the future Jeddah Tower, suggests focusing on revamping existing structures rather than pursuing higher buildings. The American Institute of Architects supports this by indicating that the reuse of buildings could prevent 50 to 75 percent of emissions tied to new constructions.
The Changing Sky of Austin
Despite Waterline’s current dominance, the upcoming Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences Miami will surpass it once completed by 2028. However, the developers of Waterline emphasize the quality and positive impact of the development above its record height.
Situated between Waller Creek and the Rainey Street historic district, Waterline enhances connectivity with pedestrian bridges and access points, bridging the downtown area with the historic district. The development aims to be a catalyst for activity and engagement in a region once limited in accessibility.