Scarbrough Building

Introduction

The Scarbrough Building, prominently set at the intersection of Congress Avenue and Sixth Street, is one of Austin’s most iconic architectural and historical landmarks. Completed in 1909 as the city’s first steel-framed high-rise, it heralded a new era of modern urban development and retail innovation in Texas. Its legacy, rooted in the entrepreneurial vision of Emerson Monroe Scarbrough, Sr., has shaped Austin’s commercial and cultural landscape for over a century. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the building’s history, architectural significance, visiting hours, accessibility, nearby attractions, and practical tips to help you get the most out of your visit (Wikipedia; Guide to Austin Architecture; Austin Insider Blog).

Origins and Early Development

The Scarbrough Building’s story begins with Emerson Monroe Scarbrough, Sr., whose retail vision shaped Austin’s commercial district. After establishing his first store in Rockdale, Texas in 1874, Scarbrough moved to Austin in 1893, opening a department store on Congress Avenue—long considered Austin’s “Main Street” (Wikipedia).

By 1908, the Scarbrough family commissioned Sanguinet & Staats to design a new flagship building. Completed in 1909, this eight-story structure was Texas’s first steel-framed high-rise and briefly the tallest private building in the state (Guide to Austin Architecture). Its completion marked Austin’s emergence as a modern, upwardly mobile urban center.

Architectural and Historical Significance

Chicago School Influence

The Scarbrough Building stands as Austin’s earliest and best example of Chicago School commercial architecture. Its steel-frame construction, tripartite façade (base, shaft, capital), and rhythmic window arrangements reflect this pragmatic yet elegant style (Guide to Austin Architecture). The building’s terra cotta and brickwork, detailed cornices, and large plate-glass windows were considered advanced for their time (ECRTX Scarbrough Building).

Urban Impact

The building’s stature and location at Congress Avenue and Sixth Street anchored Austin’s burgeoning business district and spurred further development. Its proximity to the Littlefield Building fueled a friendly rivalry that shaped the city’s skyline and solidified Congress Avenue as the heart of Austin’s commercial and civic life (Austin Insider Blog).

Art Deco Transformation and Technological Innovation

A transformative renovation in 1931 added striking Art Deco elements—limestone, jet-black granite, gold geometric motifs, and stained glass—while also introducing one of Texas’s earliest and most attractive storefronts (Guide to Austin Architecture). That same year, the Scarbrough Building became the first retail store west of the Mississippi to install air conditioning (“manufactured weather”), revolutionizing the shopping experience for Texans (Austin Energy History).

Economic and Social Impact

For much of the 20th century, the Scarbrough Building was home to E.M. Scarbrough & Sons, a department store that was both a commercial powerhouse and a social gathering point. The store’s innovations and community events made it a destination for generations. As Austin’s population surged, the building remained a symbol of resilience and adaptability, weathering economic downturns and supporting the city’s continued growth (Austin Energy History; Trek Zone).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

• Location: 600 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX (The Clio)
• Public Access: Lobby and ground-floor retail/dining areas are generally open Tuesday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–10:00 PM. Closed to the public Sundays and Mondays. Hours may vary by tenant.
• Dining: The Scarbrough restaurant is open Tuesday–Saturday for lunch (11:00 AM–2:30 PM) and dinner (5:00 PM–10:00 PM). Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner and during major events (The Scarbrough Restaurant).
• Tickets: There is no general admission fee for lobby or retail areas. Special events or tours may require advance booking or tickets.
• Accessibility: The building is ADA-compliant, offering ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Guided Tours and Photographic Highlights

While the Scarbrough Building does not host its own guided tours, it is featured on many local history and architecture walking tours (Enchanting Texas). Self-guided exploration is encouraged, with interpretive signage and historic imagery in the lobby.

Photography: The building’s Art Deco façade, Chicago School details, and elegant lobby provide excellent photo opportunities. Respect privacy in office areas and restaurant spaces; photography is generally welcome in public zones.

Dining, Retail, and Cultural Events

• The Scarbrough Restaurant: Enjoy sweet and savory crepes, fresh salads, and a full bar by day; globally inspired cuisine and cocktails by night, all in a beautifully restored Art Deco setting. Happy hour is 4–6 PM (The Scarbrough Restaurant).
• Retail: The ground floor often features a mix of boutiques and pop-up shops.
• Events: Although the building itself does not regularly host public events, tenants frequently participate in citywide happenings such as the Paramount Summer Classic Film Series and Sixth Street festivals (The Austin Things).

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Within Walking Distance:

• Texas State Capitol (free tours and gardens) (Enchanting Texas)
• Paramount Theatre (film and live performances)
• Sixth Street Historic District (music venues, nightlife, architecture)
• Mexic-Arte Museum (Mexican and Latino art)

Travel Tips:

• Use nearby public transit, parking garages, or rideshare due to downtown parking limitations.
• Weekdays at lunchtime or early evenings offer a lively yet manageable atmosphere.
• Combine your visit with a stop at the Austin Visitor Center for maps and tour info.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the Scarbrough Building’s visiting hours?
A: Public areas are open Tuesday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–10:00 PM. Tenant hours may vary; closed Sundays and Mondays.

Q: Is there an entry fee or ticket required to visit?
A: No, public access to the lobby and retail/dining spaces is free.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: The building is included in many local walking tours, but does not offer its own guided tours.

Q: Is the building accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, full ADA accessibility is provided.

Q: Can I make dining reservations?
A: Yes, especially recommended for dinner at The Scarbrough restaurant.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, in public areas. Please be considerate of private tenants and other visitors.