Scarborough Building, Austin

The Scarbrough Building in Austin stands as a symbol of the city's architectural and commercial evolution. Completed in 1910, this 110-foot, 8-story edifice initially held the title of the tallest private building in Texas, marking Austin's entry into the era of "skyscrapers." It was named after the Scarbrough's department store, a regional retail giant, which originally occupied the building.

Situated at the intersection of Congress Avenue and Sixth Street, the Scarbrough Building enjoys a prime location in the heart of Austin. This intersection has long been considered the city's symbolic center. The building's prominence was briefly challenged when George Littlefield, a local businessman, expanded his nearby building to surpass its height.

The brainchild of Emerson Monroe Scarbrough, an Alabama native, the building is a prime example of the Chicago Style of architecture. This style is recognized for its use of masonry cladding (brick, stone, or terra cotta) over a steel frame and features a tripartite design reminiscent of a classical column: a sturdy base, a plain middle, and a decorative top. The Scarbrough Building's construction was a significant event in Austin, with its innovative concrete-and-steel structure being the subject of much local speculation and betting.

However, by the late 20th century, the Scarbrough department store, like many downtown retailers, succumbed to the growing popularity of suburban shopping malls, leading to its closure in 1982. Following a period of varied tenancy, the building has found new life. Its ground floor and basement now host a bustling social club, while the upper floors are occupied by a diverse mix of offices and tech startups. In 1931, the building's lower floors were remodeled in the Art Deco style, reflecting a modernization trend of the era and adding to the building's architectural significance.