In the heart of East Austin, where the echoes of the early 20th-century industrial era linger, Cosmic Saltillo stands as a bold reimagining of adaptive reuse and community-centric design. The project, spearheaded by Clayton Korte, transforms two abandoned Texaco warehouses into a dynamic hospitality space that seamlessly blends history, art, and nature. With its sustainable design ethos, the complex now houses a coffee bar, taqueria, and lush garden, offering a laid-back retreat for urban dwellers and visitors alike.
The warehouses, once used to store petroleum products, have been meticulously stabilized and reimagined. Their corrugated steel siding, wood-framed windows, and metal roofing remain intact, preserving the gritty charm of Austin’s industrial heritage. Between the two structures, a verdant garden acts as the social heart of the property, featuring a covered deck, open patio, and a serene koi pond enveloped in dense vegetation. At night, the space transforms under string lighting and the glow of a custom mural adorning a new 30-foot steel mesh tower—a striking architectural addition that bridges the old and new.
Art and graffiti play a pivotal role in the project’s identity. Local artist Miles Starkey was enlisted to create murals and graffiti on key elements, including the tower and a new patio wall. In 2023, Cosmic further celebrated Austin’s creative spirit by inviting artists to paint the street-facing fences in honor of the late Daniel Jonston, infusing the site with a riot of color and organic texture.
The design team, including Ten Eyck Landscape Architecture, ensured the space is both durable and evocative, with materials chosen to weather and patina over time. The west building now hosts a coffee and spirit bar, while the east building introduces a taqueria, creating a morning-to-night destination. A second-level bar and event space offers an intimate setting, accessible via a sculptural stairway at the entry.
With 6,531 square feet of revitalized space—4,760 of which repurpose the original structures—Cosmic Saltillo is a masterclass in adaptive reuse. Completed in Summer 2023, the project not only honors Austin’s past but also fosters a thriving community hub where art, history, and nature converge. For those seeking a taste of Austin’s eclectic soul, this landscape-focused hospitality space is a must-visit.