Two Large-Scale North Lamar Projects Initiate Over 600 New Apartments
Central Austin is set to witness eye-catching developments as two distinctive residential projects have broken ground on North Lamar Boulevard, promising an additional 605 apartments in the area. The pair of developments illustrate that regardless of a testimony of the housing market’s softness, plans for multifamily residential developments remain steadfast with a slowdown seen only in more significant downtown projects.
A Glimpse into the Projects
5210 North Lamar Boulevard
One of the projects, momentarily known as Lamar at North Loop VMU, is being planned at 5210 North Lamar Boulevard, on a site of approximately 2.38 acres. This site has been vacant for around a decade following the demolition of its previous occupancies – a used car dealership and a medical supply company. California-based developer Madrone Ventures has taken up the task to turn this vacant space into a six-story, 227-unit apartment complex.
What made this project more unexpected than the others was its sudden initiation by White Construction Company, the building’s general contractors, after having been in planning stages for nearly eight years. Geographically, one of the most distinguishing highlights of this project is its footprint wraps around the Taco Cabana next door. The project aims to open its doors by 2026 and features local design work from architects Nelsen Partners and landscape studio dwg.
7301 North Lamar Boulevard
Another project, tentatively named “N. Lamar”, has been initiated by real estate investment firm Griffin Capital and mega-developer Greystar Real Estate Partners. This project is planned for a 3.6-acre site at 7301 North Lamar Boulevard near its intersection with West St. Johns Avenue. This area is conveniently located within walking distance of the Crestview rail and bus station. The development promises to offer 378-unit apartments, enhancing not only the living standards of the residents but also the region’s walkability by adding a new protected bike lane along its North Lamar frontage and providing a sidewalk connection to Odell Street on the eastern edge of the site.
Design and architectural work for N. Lamar is being carried out by Houston-based architects Meeks + Partners, local landscape studio TBG Partners, and engineering firm Civilitude. However, the timeline for the project’s completion remains unforeseen.
In Conclusion
These two projects’ landmarks mark a significant and much-needed step towards residential growth in Central Austin. As bold endeavors begin to reshape North Lamar Boulevard, anticipation builds among future residents and surrounding communities. Despite the economic uncertainties, the groundbreaking of these substantial residential developments signifies tenacity and forward motion, providing new opportunities for potential residents and commercial tenants alike.
