Just that the aforementioned Rio Grande is actually Red River Street for the west facing side. Additionally, I don't see a completely helpless looking south side facade in the renderings. It appears great streets will be implemented on the part in compliance with the construction code. Logistically it makes sense the lobby entrance is to the north even if south might be more visually trafficked. With the improvements to Palm Park and development of Sabine Street alongside the Waller Creek plan, I expect the isolation of such a striking building (albeit with the 'bad' side facing traffic) to be nicely marginalized with the surrounding upgrades and infill. Hard to project that now without more comprehensive renderings. Remember this project is 3 years from being complete. I expect that entire area to look markedly different by that time.
What's not to love?
(Love it when emoticons appropriately capture syntax btw)
Quote:
Originally Posted by austex
Looking at the info for the Fairmont Austin...the street facade on Caesar Chavez will be a blank wall with stair well exits...nothing more. OK two windows at the corner of Rio Grande for the seating area for the lobby, but nothing more.
The "Front Entry/Lobby" will be facing north to Waller Creek;
indoor and out door seating at the lobby/bar will face west onto Rio Grande;
garage entry/exit will face east on "Sabine Street" Palm Park;
and the emergency exits for the conference area will face south on Caesar Chavez.
I am eager to see this hotel rise...however, why is the blank face of the hotel facing the MOST traveled street of the site?!? A blank wall on Ceasar Chavez seems against all that the City of Austin is trying to create with the Great Streets program. Am I missing something with these drawings?; Or is the Fairmont Austin turning its back to a MAJOR entry street into our downtown?
What am I missing? |