Block 185

Block 185 is an office tower in downtown Austin with a distinctive curved glass facade shaped like a sail. Its 35 floors contain office space, parking facilities, and ground-level retail, with direct connection to the Second Street shopping area.

The land was originally planned for use as a penitentiary starting in 1839, then later became a water treatment facility. The site was sold in 2012 and developed into the current structure.

Google chose this location as its main Austin office, featuring local artwork throughout the interior spaces. The outdoor areas scattered across the building create natural gathering spots where people meet and linger.

The building provides five underground parking levels and seven above-ground parking floors that can be converted to office space. Its central location makes walking to nearby shops and streets straightforward and accessible.

The glass panels feature special treatment to prevent bird collisions while still letting maximum natural light flood the interior. Each floor offers wide, unrestricted views spanning about 180 degrees through the transparent walls.

GPS coordinates: 30.26553,-97.75263

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:25