Austin Real Estate Blog

For the last 4 years the Austin Starr Building, a large imposing building in downtown, has stood empty. All of this is no longer true. This 55 year old building is getting a face lift and a new resident. Kemp Properties is currently in the process of closing the deal to purchase the property. It is their intention to renovate and update the building while preserving the history of this large Austin landmark.

In 1954 the Starr building served as American National Bank, who included Austin’s first escalators and the first drive up banking center in the area. On the interior lobby wall is a mural that made Fortune magazine’s shortly list of distinguished national architectural paintings, this mural was designed by modern artist Seymour Fogel. These are just some of the historical attributes associated with the incredible building.

The goal of the Kemp renovation will be to preserve the historical value while bringing it into a green and energy efficient design. They will be leaving the renovation and planning to the capable and renowned company of McGarrah Jesse firm. Their plans and architectural expertise has been seen in several preservation and renovation projects around the city and the world. To their credit the list includes the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center along with the LBJ School Renovation.

The example this acquisition makes for all of Austin is that commercial real estate is still a viable investment for any company. Finding the right commercial establishment, rich and full of history is an investment that can enhance any business, even in troubled times. This process will be made fair with the use of your commercial real estate agent.