Meet The Austin: Lower Polk’s Newest Gem Designed Truly For Living
The Austin, a design-forward building, takes its place in Lower Polk – a hip new and storied old neighborhood in the heart of San Francisco. Designed by Edmonds + Lee Architects, the building embodies principals Robert Edmond’s and Vivian Lee's commitment to producing work that explores relationships of light, space, plane, material, and the endless possibilities of form.
The Austin is a haven set above the street—just far enough to provide the perfect amount of privacy to help escape the frenetic life of the city below, but still close enough to feel its vibrant energy and heartbeat. Designed around a concept of frames, The Austin’s large white rectangles enhance the City’s skyline when seen from a distance. A closer look reveals the intricacy in which every window frames a unique perspective of the city from each residence. The thoughtfully curated residences are a collection of private spaces that are part of the greater community: the building, the neighborhood and the city.
The building is a prime example of the intersection of old- meets new-school San Francisco. Incorporating the best of the upscale, minimalist hospitality design into a cozy setting that people with discerning, international experience and taste would want to call home, it creates into a cocoon-like sanctuary that draws you in. The utilitarian design is as practical is as it beautiful, and includes: a peek-a-boo, dual-sided fireplace; a communal co-working space that’s warm and inviting like an in-building coffee shop; cool LED slot lighting; high lobby ceilings; and raw concrete columns that give you a glimpse of the building’s fierce, structural integrity.
The Austin was designed to inspire creativity and foster networking. Residents of the building will enjoy resort-style living with the most contemporary and in-demand amenities, while embodying the quintessential spirit of San Francisco. It offers ample outdoor spaces, including a spectacular roof deck with sweeping city views.
The Austin features 100 residences including studio, one- and two-bedroom homes. The homes will offer top-of-the-line fixtures and kitchen appliances from high-end European manufacturers such as Miele, Bosch and Hansgrohe. In the bathrooms, floating vanities, hidden drawers and custom cabinetry by local San Francisco cabinetmaker Sozo Studio also add a simple, understated flair. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to flow through the space, and showcase the expansive views of the city.
