The redevelopment of the Austin Convention Center is going to change the landscape of downtown Austin in a big way, and here’s a first look at what’s coming. The new renderings showcase a world-class Convention Center with cutting-edge architecture, immersive public spaces, and a zero-carbon design.
The $1.6 billion redevelopment isn’t just about growing the Convention Center. It’s about creating a walkable and connected downtown experience. From expansive outdoor terraces to rentable open-air spaces, every element is designed to make the area more inviting, sustainable, and authentically Austin.
This unveiling marks a major milestone in bringing Unconventional ATX to life. With construction set to begin in April 2025, the countdown has officially started.
The 620,000-sq.-ft. venue will significantly increase Austin’s rentable event space, blending indoor-outdoor experiences, pedestrian-friendly streets, and vibrant cultural elements. Austin’s creative spirit takes center stage with a record-breaking $17.7 million investment in public art, turning the Convention Center into a hub for culture and connection.
“The redevelopment of the Convention Center will create a vital downtown amenity and urban connector,” said Austin Mayor Kirk Watson. “With a design that emphasizes street-level openness and accessibility, vibrant plazas, and pedestrian-friendly pathways, this transformation will enhance connectivity and inclusivity, creating a more accessible and engaging downtown experience for residents and visitors.”
From the Waterloo Greenway to the Palm District, the new design sets Austin apart as a top-tier international destination for conventions.
Every detail of the new Convention Center is designed with sustainability in mind, from salvaged materials and mass timber roof structures to low-carbon concrete and steel. The project is setting a new standard for sustainability, striving to be the first Zero Carbon Certified Convention Center in the world. With a vision to achieve ILFI Zero Carbon certification and align with the Austin Climate Equity Plan, the facility will run on 100% renewable energy.
The final events at the Convention Center will wrap up this March, and then in April, we’ll be gearing up for our exciting new chapter with the start of the redevelopment. Stay informed with updates through our newsletter, social media, and website.
We’re featuring a partner of the Austin Convention Center redevelopment in every newsletter. Meet the project management team.
Project Control, in collaboration with Square One and Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB), is the project management team for the City of Austin and the Austin Convention Center. With over 45 years of experience, the Texas-based firm is a national leader in project management with a strong history with Square One and RLB.
Project Control’s expertise comes from managing over 2,000 projects worth over $20 billion in capital investments, including the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center Expansion. Square One, an Austin-based firm, has worked on over 300 local projects valued at more than $20 billion, while RLB is an international firm with a strong Texas presence, including projects like the Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center in Dallas and the San Antonio Convention Center. Together, the three firms bring specialized experience in convention center projects, complemented by a deep understanding of the City of Austin.
The team is committed to working closely with the City of Austin and all stakeholders to deliver the Austin Convention Center redevelopment, aligning with both functional and economic goals while embracing Austin’s evolution into the Cool Era and supporting the community.
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Reimagining the Austin Convention Center of the future.
