Texas studio Michael Hsu Office of Architecture has adapted a 130-year-old building in Austin into an all-day restaurant, bar, and gathering space where “old world meets new world.” Inspired by Argentine pulperías, Spanish cocktail bars, and New Orleans delis, the Uptown Sports Club ushers in a new chapter for a building in East Austin constructed in 1893 by German immigrant Fritz Hot. The structure has served variously as a bakery, butcher shop, and sports bar throughout its history.
Design Meets History Perfectly
The building earned historic landmark status in 2020, prompting the design team to strictly adhere to the Secretary of the Interior’s Rehabilitation Standards during renovation. Michael Hsu, founder of his eponymous firm said, “This project celebrates a great building and the mythology of an iconic eastside corner while adding a new chapter to its history.” He added, “The design complements the existing structure and enlivens it to host the community. The result is the kind of place you want to be – a distinctive vibe with familiar food and drink.”
A Fusion of Cultural Inspirations
Drawing from the vibrant social traditions of Argentine pulperías, Spanish cocktail bars, and New Orleans delis, the Uptown Sports Club reflects a multicultural approach that merges old-world heritage with modern culinary culture. The restaurant serves a robust coffee and cocktail menu that pairs with recipes by Austin barbecue pitmaster Aaron Franklin, creating a lively all-day destination.
Restoration of Architectural Features
The studio meticulously reconstructed numerous original elements using historic photographs, including the hand-painted signage from the 1960s by Joseph Henderson that lends the restaurant its name. Pine flooring was salvaged, and period door hardware was preserved. Architectural details such as the rectangular plan with a chamfered corner entrance, decorative cornice with a sawtooth brick corbel, segmented brick arches over windows and doors, window and door trim, wooden awnings, and interior woodwork were all carefully restored or subtly updated to maintain historic integrity.
Thoughtful Spatial Planning
The design prioritizes fluidity and accessibility, facilitating smooth transitions between spaces. A spacious back patio extends an outdoor communal atmosphere. The project team said, “Restoring a 130-year-old building meant balancing structural quirks, historic tax requirements, and modern functionality.” They noted challenges including “the spatial challenges of adding kitchen appliances into the small footprint and the accessibility accommodations of the sloping site.” The team emphasized that “adapting the space for all users while preserving its character made this both a complex and rewarding process.”
Commitment to Sustainability
In places where original elements could not be preserved, reclaimed or salvaged materials were integrated to maintain the building’s heritage and support sustainable reuse practices. The project also incorporated energy-conserving features, including low-VOC finishes, high-performance building systems, low-flow fixtures, and FSC-certified lumber.
For The Community
The project team reflected on the significance of their work, emphasizing the deeper impact of preserving and repurposing historic buildings. Describing the project, the team said: “This project reinforced the value of adaptive reuse and the importance of historic preservation in creating spaces that resonate deeply with the community.” They continued, “It showcased how thoughtful design can breathe new life into a dormant structure, extending its relevance for future generations.”
Expanding a Legacy
Michael Hsu Office of Architecture has continued to engage with distinctive restaurant projects across Texas. Their portfolio includes a seafood restaurant inspired by brutalism, a Japanese restaurant featuring timber screens, and an Asian smokehouse converted from a 1940s church, showcasing the firm’s expertise in blending architecture, history, and cultural narratives.
