Texas Permanent School Fund selects Optik™ Shoe
Request a QuoteFrom a $2 million seed, the endowment grew through energy and land revenues. Today, the Texas PSF Corporation manages over $53 billion and recently moved into a new headquarters at 1300 Red River Street in Austin’s Innovation District—a location that underscores its commitment to progress.
Railing System: Optik™ Shoe
Location: Austin, Texas
Architect: Studio 8 Design
Creating a modern workspace
Located just blocks from the University of Texas campus, Innovation Tower now houses the PSF’s 2,000-square-foot buildout. Studio 8 Design set out to create a workspace that is both forward-looking and timeless. They envisioned an open stairway connecting the sixth and seventh floors, using durable finishes that harmonize wood, concrete, and glass. The team prioritized natural light, continuous sightlines, and accessibility.
Of course, achieving these goals required more than aesthetics. Every element had to comply with the latest IBC 2021 code and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The challenge was to select a minimalist railing system that would enhance the design without compromising durability or code compliance. After careful evaluation, one solution stood out as the clear answer.
Selecting the Optik™ Shoe system
The Optik™ Shoe is designed to give the appearance of floating glass. The glass panels are supported by a aluminum channel, and are secured by a patented disc lock mechanism, creating a clean, uninterrupted appearance. The system uses high‑quality AISI 304 stainless steel, ensuring durability and compatibility with LEED‑focused projects. At the Texas PSF office, the system uses 9/16″ laminated glass with an SGP interlayer for strength and noise attenuation.
The black powder-coated steel handrail not only adds contrast but also meets ADA graspability standards. Standard surface mounting methods were used, anchoring the base channel directly to the stair’s steel stringer and to concrete around the seventh‑floor.
Moreover, all components were pre-assembled at HDI’s Pennsylvania facility. This allowed for fast, precise installation with minimal field work, ensuring every fit was seamless. The result is a railing system that draws in natural light, maintains sightlines, and stands up to heavy daily use.
Achieving transparency and elegance
Throughout installation, particular attention was paid to aligning the glass panels and maintaining continuous sightlines. The result is a stair and balcony assembly that appears to float: the Optik™ Shoe’s concealed fastening gives the illusion of unsupported glass, allowing daylight from adjacent curtainwall facades to spill down the stair. The completed stair seamlessly ties together the sixth‑floor reception area with executive offices and conference suites on the seventh floor.
HDI’s Optik™ Shoe system met the architect’s vision and code requirements while remaining mindful of budget and schedule constraints. As Texas PSF continues investing billions of dollars to support public education, the new headquarters stands as a physical expression of clarity, stewardship and innovation.
Why Choose HDI?
Railing systems should enhance your project without introducing ongoing costs or concerns. At HDI Railing Systems, our precision-engineered railing solutions adapt and evolve with your project’s needs. All of our railing systems are manufactured in the USA to ensure the highest quality and attention to your specifications. Crafted from premium materials, our systems provide lasting durability, robust safety, and timeless design. For inquiries or to request a quote, please visit our website or contact one of our regional sales managers directly.