Transformation of Austin

“Placeless” would definitely be how I describe the transformation of Austin. A couple decades ago, Austin flourished with a retro, homey style. Now, Austin has succumbed to the same disease that seems to be overtaking much of the world: modernization and simplification. Minimalism isn’t always bad per se, but it certainly comes with a huge tradeoff.

Las Manitas/Burger Bar is a clear example of how Austin lost its sense of place: in 2006, the Avenue Cafe had a mural right next to it and decorated its opening with vibrant colors reminiscent of the 20th century; in 2024, there’s a gray, modernistic Starbucks that replaced the cafe with the mural covered up. It certainly looks cleaner than before, but do we have to give up what defines Austin for the rapid urbanization?