The city of Austin, Texas, is about to see a change to its skyline. On February 25, the Austin Convention Center Department (ACCD) unveiled the first renderings of the new Austin Convention Center, dubbed “Unconventional ATX.” The $1.6 billion project is expected to redefine the city’s event landscape with more space, innovative design, and a commitment to sustainability. 

The new downtown facility will nearly double the rentable space of the existing convention center, expanding it from 365,000 to 620,000 square feet. Funded through hotel occupancy tax and convention center revenues, the project will start demolition and construction following the venue’s closure in April. The center is expected to be completed in late 2028 and will reopen in early 2029 in time for spring festival season. 

“The new Austin Convention Center is more than a venue—it’s a landmark that reflects our city’s bold and creative spirit,” said ACCD Director Trisha Tatro. “With its dynamic design, enhanced community access, and commitment to sustainability, this facility will set a new benchmark for convention spaces while strengthening Austin’s reputation as a premier global destination.” 

Architectural and Sustainable Design

Designed by a joint venture of LMN and Page Architects, Unconventional ATX’s key features include: 

• 550,000 square feet of indoor space 
• 70,000 square feet of outdoor space 
• Open-air terraces and public plazas 
• Seamless indoor-outdoor connections 
• A modern façade with sweeping roof structures 
• Transparent designs maximizing natural light 

The new facility is also slated to become the world’s first zero-carbon-certified convention center, as recognized by the International Living Futures Institute, helping to bolster Austin’s image as a leader in sustainable urban development while setting a new standard for the convention venue industry.  

Allowing the city to host larger and multiple events at the same time, the expanded center will also allow Austin to compete on an international scale while creating a space that serves both visitors and locals alike, according to Visit Austin President and CEO Tom Noonan.  

“This project represents a pivotal investment in Austin’s future as a top-tier convention and tourism destination, and we look forward to welcoming the world to experience everything our incredible city has to offer.” 

Focus on Culture and Community 

Beyond its role as a premium venue for business events of all types and sizes, the new and larger convention center will also serve as a cultural hub for the progressive Texas city, furthering its status as a global arts and culture destination. With a $17.7 million investment in public art, the largest in the city’s history, Unconventional ATX will showcase dynamic installations, interactive exhibits, and artist-driven spaces celebrating Austin’s diverse creative community. 

“The Austin Convention Center redevelopment reflects our core values of community, inclusivity, and local empowerment,” said Zohaib “Zo” Qadri, Austin City Council member representing District 9. “This isn’t just a building; it’s an asset to our community that will help meet our city’s mobility goals and promote economic opportunity for local vendors. This investment helps build a future where every Austinite thrives.” 

Besides fostering a dynamic experience for event attendees, the project also prioritizes improved connectivity with surrounding areas, including the Waterloo Greenway, Palm District, and Project Connect initiatives. Plans include reopening Third Street for multimodal traffic and transforming Second Street into a pedestrian-friendly corridor, enhancing public access and supporting the city’s mobility goals, according to city officials. 

“The redevelopment of the Convention Center will create a vital downtown amenity and urban connector,” said Austin Mayor Kirk Watson. “With a design that emphasizes street-level openness and accessibility, vibrant public plazas, and pedestrian-friendly pathways, this transformation will enhance connectivity and inclusivity, creating a more accessible and engaging downtown experience for residents and visitors.” 

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