Michael Hsu's Soft Shapes Enchant 44 East Avenue Skyscraper, Bringing a Breath of Fresh Design

Michael Hsu Office of Architecture, a renowned US studio, has meticulously crafted the common areas and amenity spaces for 44 East Avenue, a striking residential skyscraper in Austin, Texas. The impressive 51-story development, 44 East Avenue, gracefully designed by Page Architects, offers 330 luxurious condominiums and an array of shared amenities, including a captivating circular outdoor swimming pool set against the backdrop of the city’s riverfront.

Michael Hsu, the visionary founder of the studio, described 44 East Avenue, “The studio’s approach to designing the communal spaces was nothing short of organic artistry, seamlessly blending soft shapes and natural materials with the sleek glass and concrete structure. 44 East Avenue is an unexpected expression of the harmonious union between nature and design, skillfully creating beautiful, livable, and modern spaces that evoke the essence of home.”

44 East Avenue’s Interiors

The ground-floor lobby features a splendid glazed atrium that gracefully divides the space while effortlessly connecting the indoors with the lush landscaping by DWG outside. Here, vintage and contemporary furniture tastefully adorn lounges on either side, introducing pops of color and texture to the bright and inviting lobby, characterized by light colors and graceful curved surfaces.

The lobby’s centerpiece, a rounded mint-green reception desk, effortlessly complements a white tambour wall, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space. Its glossy finish and chrome base resonate with the custom pendant light hanging gracefully over the nearby seating area.

On the 11th floor, you’ll find a series of spaces adorned with pastel tones, harmoniously matching the interiors of the residences meticulously designed by Page. The design is captivated by breathtaking views of the Colorado River and the leafy neighborhoods to the south.

The 11th-floor oasis boasts a circular outdoor swimming pool, thoughtfully furnished with loungers that gently dip into the shallow water and pebble-shaped islands, creating a tranquil setting that beckons relaxation. Adjacent to the pool, a partially covered patio invites residents to indulge in barbecuing and al fresco dining amidst a natural wonder – a tree growing through a hole in the slatted canopy.

The 37th floor of 44 East Avenue features further amenity areas adorned with jewel tones and darker materials, including stone flooring. An ample moon-like pendant light gracefully hangs above a circular sofa, contributing to an intimate and luxurious ambiance.

Michael Hsu’s vision for the communal areas was to create a wholly designed experience that caters to many ways of living, devoid of pretentiousness. The aim was to make 44East Avenue’s design an integral part of the residents’ everyday experience rather than a rare occurrence reserved for special occasions.
Austin, a thriving city sought-after for its livability and opportunities, continues to witness a surge in development across various sectors, from residential to commercial and hospitality. Plans for a supertall skyscraper were unveiled in November 2022, with modifications made later, adding further excitement to the city’s skyline and architectural landscape.

44 East Avenue is strategically located beside the majestic Colorado River, east of Downtown Austin, providing residents with a unique blend of urban living and natural serenity. As the city progresses, completing numerous impressive projects, Michael Hsu’s Office of Architecture remains at the forefront, leaving its mark with a range of successful ventures, from a transformed Austin church to a charming Japanese restaurant in Houston.
44 East Avenue stands as an exceptional testament to the seamless integration of nature and design, offering an oasis of comfort and modernity in the heart of Austin. With its thoughtfully designed communal spaces and unparalleled amenities, this residential skyscraper sets a new standard for sophisticated urban living, making it a truly extraordinary place to call home.