In a now revitalized Austin, Texas neighbourhood that was once known for its rough character, MAGIC Architecture has transformed what they describe as an existing ‘scrappy’ building that served for many years as a liquor store into The Meteor, an all-day café and custom bicycle shop.
The concrete building was originally constructed in the 1920s, but it’s original charm and potential had become hidden after years of ill-advised additions including awnings and cluttered signage.
As a starting point, the architects looked to the exterior wall openings, installing a typed of triangulated or ‘krinkled’ type of window. The dynamic planes of the new windows reflect light in a way that provides both an upward and downward view of the sky.
Next, materials that had been added over the years were peeled away, allowing the designers to clear and restore the building’s original material to their original state. This included sandblasting the original steel trusses and pine roof to gain back their original charm and integrity, while the pink terrazzo floor was fully restored – complete with an in-floor safe from the 1920s.
Encaustic patterned tile, purposefully placed skylights, and signage add a surprisingly playful and casual tone to the experience of the transformed space.
