The Domain II will undergo upgrades for new amenities such as a large lawn with a cable shade structure for music and festival events, Simon Property Group Inc. announced March 6.

Construction on The Domain II—the portion between Dillard's and Dick's Sporting Goods—will begin in March and is expected to be completed in September, said Lauren Krumlauf, director of marketing at The Domain. Other improvements will include large pedestrian walkways, play area for children, new lighting, shaded seating areas and additional trees.

The lawn will span 10,000 square feet from Domain Drive to iPic Theaters. It is designed for live music, festivals, markets and holiday activities, according to Simon Property Group, which owns The Domain. Krumlauf said the venue will be open to the public to use for events.

"What I'm excited about is having an area that community groups can use," she said.

Seattle-based design firm Dillon Works is designing a play area for children in the existing water fountain space. Krumlauf said the water fountain will be removed because it has not been operable since the city of Austin's water restrictions increased.

The decision to add more amenities at The Domain II came from resident, retailer and customer feedback that indicated a desire for open green space to relax and an area for children to play, Krumlauf said.

"We have a really strong store lineup over there," she said. "We just really want to increase the excitement and interest around Domain II."

Anyone interested in booking future events at the lawn may call 512-873-8099.