Lake Flato revamps 600 Congress Avenue with green wall and rooftop terrace

Lake Flato has finalized the transformation of 600 Congress Avenue, a 31,000-square-foot office space located in Austin, Texas, updating its 1980s aesthetic. The renovation reintroduced the circular lobby opening and created the Lowyard lounge, complemented by a 35-foot-tall green wall crafted by a local agriculturalist at the entrance. Inside, a five-storey atrium showcases a sculptural staircase and concentric interior storefronts. The design team opted for white oak paneling, earthy plaster, light terrazzo flooring, and blackened steel accents instead of darker materials. The 26th-floor outdoor terrace, named the Highyard, features city views along with a steel canopy, vine trellis, teak decking, and native plants. Senior associate Jenna Steinbeck highlighted the challenge of adhering to budget constraints while maintaining finishes below a 21-foot datum in the 80-foot atrium. Originally designed by Morris Aubrey Architect in 1984, the building's original features had been concealed by earlier renovations. Photography credits go to Chase Daniel.