Project: Cosmic Saltillo
Architecture: Clayton Korte
Team: George Wilcox, Sky Currie, Sydney Steadman, Veronica Lloveras
Architecture & Interior Design: Clayton Korte
General Contractor: Solutions GC
Landscape Architect: Ten Eyck Landscape Architecture
Location: Austin, Texas
Year: 2023
Photo Credits: Clay Grier
Cosmic Saltillo by Clayton Korte transforms two long‑abandoned early‑1900s warehouse buildings in East Austin into a vibrant, landscape-focused hospitality space. Once used by Texaco to store petroleum products delivered by rail, these industrial relics now house a thriving restaurant and bar—Cosmic Coffee & Beer—offering a unique blend of history, art, and sustainability.
Celebrating History and Industrial Legacy
Originally constructed for Texas Company, the warehouse buildings once dispensed petroleum to trucks throughout Austin. Over the past century, they have gathered layers of history and graffiti, serving as rare remnants of the area’s industrial past. Today, Cosmic Saltillo embraces that legacy while reimagining the space for modern urban life.
A Transformative Design Approach
Firstly, the project breathed new life into the two front‑gabled warehouses. The design team stabilized the existing structures and transformed them entirely. Specifically, the west building now houses a coffee and spirit bar with a lounge area, while the east building introduces a new taqueria. In addition, the spaces between the buildings have been activated as inviting seating areas and gardens.
Upon entering the complex, key signatures of the Cosmic brand emerge. For example, water features, fig ivy‑climbing steel trellises, and custom signage immediately set the tone. Moreover, a striking new 30‑foot tower—with a surrounding steel mesh and a custom mural—is activated in the evening, providing access to a second‑level balcony that enhances the property’s dramatic character.
Integrating Landscape and Sustainability
Furthermore, Cosmic Saltillo prioritizes the connection between nature and urban living. The design transforms the site’s interstitial spaces into a lush garden that serves as the heart of the property. A covered deck and open patio with ample seating encourage relaxation, while a koi pond immersed in dense vegetation enhances the serene atmosphere. At night, the curved form of the deck and subtle string lighting evoke the starry elements of the Cosmic brand, reinforcing a sense of wonder and calm.
Art, Community, and Local Collaboration
In addition, the project embraces its gritty, urban character through a strong artistic presence. The design team collaborated with local graffiti artist Miles Starkey, who introduced new murals on strategic elements such as an awning, the tower, and a wall marking the outdoor patio’s edge. Moreover, in 2023, Cosmic invited numerous artists to paint the street‑facing fences along the property in celebration of local artist Daniel Jonston. This colorful, organic character creates a lively dialogue between the historic and the new, inviting community interaction and artistic expression.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Cosmic Saltillo by Clayton Korte stands as a celebration of urban transformation. By merging the historic industrial fabric with modern design, sustainable practices, and a vibrant artistic spirit, the project not only preserves East Austin’s heritage but also creates a dynamic venue for community and culture. This innovative reimagining turns an industrial relic into a thriving destination where history, art, and nature coexist in perfect harmony.
