First constructed in 1892 as the Elisabet Ney Studio, this historic building now serves as a museum enclosing her work and personal history. Owned and operated by the City of Austin, the museum celebrates the German-born sculptor’s legacy as a leading artist and social figure in Texas during the turn of the 20th century.
The building’s architecture is notable for its unusual usage of limestone elements, designed in a Neo-Classical style and built over two phases between 1892 and 1902. Building upon the original studio and reception room, the addition expanded Ney’s storage capacity, provided additional space for social events, and saw the creation of the studio’s three-story tower.
Current renovation work includes restoration of the original windows and doors as part of a phased program to restore the building, in addition to structural improvements and the introduction of a museum-quality HVAC/weatherization system to provide year-round climate control that better serves both the museum collection and visiting public. Site work includes new walking trails with lighting and the addition of an ADA accessible pedestrian bridge across Waller Creek.
Construction is ongoing, with the museum anticipated to reopen in Summer 2026.
This project is being completed by Lawrence Group in association with O’Connell Architecture.
Bridge installation photos courtesy of Athena Petropoulos.
