Austin will add more than 4 square miles to its city limits this spring to support development in the "Dog's Head" area over more than four decades.

The details: Assistant City Manager Eric Johnson called the "mega-site" project a major economic opportunity for Austin to pursue. The city would partially support development with a Dog's Head tax increment reinvestment zone, or TIRZ, a financing tool to reserve some tax collections there for local public improvements.

Future development around the Dog's Head could include a mix of residential, commercial, office, entertainment and other uses. An initial anchor tenant is expected to bring an advanced manufacturing project.

What they're saying: Residents testifying to council were mainly opposed to the city's significant commitments and lack of more public details about the expansive, decades-long development plans. Officials supported the plan as a major opportunity for Austin and its tax base.

Suzanne Daniels, founder and owner of Brentwood Social House, announced her intention to step away from the business in a letter to the community. 

Learn more: The announcement came on May 21, after several years of “pivoting, adapting and carrying increasing financial pressure,” Daniels wrote. 

Now, she is looking for someone to purchase the business, create a new concept within the space, sublease the property or take over the lease. 

“Sometimes the greatest kindness we can give ourselves is permission to be done,” Daniels said in the letter. “To recognize when a chapter has run its course and make space for whatever wants to emerge next.”

What to expect: Daniels assured customers that the business is still open and all bookings will be honored. She also notified customers of potential changes coming soon, including reduced staffing and adjustments to the menu and hours of operation.

• 1601 W. Koenig Lane, Austin

Mad Hippie’s first storefront is set to open in Austin on May 28, bringing a range of skincare products from its digital platform straight to customers, according to a news release.

What they offer: The skincare brand sells a range of products including the Antioxidant Facial Oil, Vitamin C Serum, Luminizing Facial SPF and a range of creams and cleansers. 

In addition to Mad Hippie products, the store will also stock a selection of products from local and small businesses, including ceramics, silk loungewear, Moroccan slippers and textiles. 

The 3,600-square-foot space will be rooted in nature, with a 300-year-old live oak tree, lounge areas, a vinyl turntable and tea service. The store will also have a facial bar for customers to test products and estheticians and staff to offer help with applications. 

One more thing: The new location will also host community events such as skincare workshops, panels, outdoor yoga, flower markets and more. 

• 700 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin

Check out some of the most-read stories from the Austin area May 18-21. 

1. The Pulao Company set to open this summer in Leander

2. City moving toward 2.6K-acre annexation to support decades of mixed-use development in East Austin

3. $250M Amazon warehouse, distribution center near CR 172 in Round Rock now operational

4. H-E-B plus! expansion, new fitness gym and more Kyle business news this spring

5. Berry Creek Drive in Georgetown closed due to storm damage

6. Pflugerville ISD teachers, nurses, psychologists to see pay bump in 2026-27