$1.6 billion. That's how much the brand new Austin Convention Center is expected to cost, and we have a first look at how it's going to shape the future of Downtown Austin.

The Austin Convention Center Department and joint architects LMN + Page Southerland Page recently released renderings of the new building's design, coming just in time for locals and visitors alike preparing to celebrate one final SXSW Festival in the old facility.

Let's poke around the plans, aka "Unconventional ATX."

This will soon be the western view from 2nd Street and Trinity Street. | Rendering provided by the Austin Convention Center Department and LMN/Page.

The design

The new blueprints will almost double the convention center's size from 365,000 sqft to 620,000 sqft, encapsulating 550,000 sqft inside and 70,000 sqft outside.

Indoor-outdoor connection was a major focus in the design, which includes plenty of windows to maximize natural light, open-air terraces, and easy access to outdoor plazas. The project is poised to be the world’s first zero-carbon-certified convention center, to be determined by the International Living Futures Institute.

Inside, the facility will feature "artist-driven spaces," large installations, and interactive exhibits to showcase "Austin's diverse creative community." Unconventional ATX's cost includes a $17.7 million investment in public art — the largest of its kind in Austin history.

Additionally, the design is meant to harmonize with other ongoing projects nearby — Waterloo Greenway, Palm District, and Project Connect — and transform 2nd Street into a pedestrian-friendly area.

The new design is set to feature much more outdoor space, like this image of the northern facade looking across 3rd Street. | Rendering provided by the Austin Convention Center Department and LMN/Page

The construction timeline

The Austin Convention Center will shut down in April, just after the end of SXSW, with demolition to ensue soon after. The new convention center is expected to open in late 2028, in time for SXSW 2029.

The new facility will feature easy connection to outdoor projects with Waterloo Greenway and emphasize access to public transport. | Rendering provided by the Austin Convention Center Department and LMN/Page

The cost

The project's $1.6 billion price tag will be funded through Hotel Occupancy Tax and Convention Center revenues.

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