Baker Botts Signs Long-Term Lease In New Downtown Austin Tower

AUSTIN, TX — International law firm Baker Botts has signed a 12-year lease to occupy 50,000 square feet at RiverSouth, the developing luxury high-rise tower being built in downtown Austin.

The lease represents the first tenant to be secured by Stream Realty Partners for its 350,611-square-foot signature project in Austin. The agreement also marks Baker Botts’ historic move from the downtown San Jacinto Center, a location it has occupied since 1988, officials noted.

RiverSouth is currently being built at 401 S. First St., on a triangular 1.5-acre tract, at the intersection of Riverside Drive, Barton Springs and South First streets. The luxury office tower broke ground following a demolition event in March this year, and is slated for completion in 2021. Baker Botts will occupy one-and-a-half floors in the 15-story building, specifically the 12th and 13th floors, according to Stream Realty Partners. The firm has more than 140 staff members in Austin, including about 70 practicing attorneys, who will all move to RiverSouth once it opens.

Developers are seeking LEED Gold certification for the new structure, as well as a 3-Star Austin Energy Green rating. The property will be treating 100 percent of the stormwater on-site through rain gardens and green roofs, officials added, while HVAC condensate recapture and storage will provide all on-site irrigation.

The amenity package at RiverSouth includes 360-degree panoramic views, bike valet and storage, underground parking and electric vehicle charging stations, a fitness studio with spa-inspired locker rooms and showers, a ground-level restaurant and shopping area totaling 37,000 square feet, a green roof and amenity deck on the 7th floor, as well as a rooftop lounge overlooking Mathias shores, Lady Bird Lake and downtown Austin.