Nature’s Treasures, a well-known Austin retailer specializing in crystals and natural products, has completed its move to a new campus at 11055 N IH-35. The relocation comes after the State of Texas acquired the business’s previous site as part of the IH-35 Capital Express project. Founder and owner Karen Richards originally opened Nature’s Treasures on East 5th Street, expanding to three locations by 2005 before consolidating into a single large venue in 2011.
The recent move was prompted when expansion plans for IH-35 changed in Fall 2023, requiring the acquisition of Nature’s Treasures’ Rock Depot and Yard site. The business and its landlord worked with the Texas Department of Transportation on the sale and subsequent relocation. In 2024, Nature’s Treasures selected a location six exits north of its original spot and began a phased move plan. The Event Center moved first, followed by other operations.
After two years of construction and collaboration between tenant, landlord, city, and state entities, Nature’s Treasures held its Grand Reopening on August 8. City officials declared this date “Nature’s Treasures Day,” with support from the Austin Chamber of Commerce.
According to Karen Richards: “Nature has the power to revitalize the body, mind and spirit.” She added that it is now more important than ever to reconnect people with nature through products such as natural textiles or jewelry.
The new campus offers expanded space totaling 23,500 square feet and includes features like lawns, trees, a creek, and local wildlife. Environmental upgrades include LED lighting retrofits and landscaping with native species. Looking ahead, Nature’s Treasures aims to participate in Austin Energy and Austin Water programs for sustainability efforts.
The Austin Chamber of Commerce supported Nature’s Treasures during its reopening event. The organization guides efforts to enhance the regional economy by fostering partnerships among local businesses for inclusive growth (https://limpar.locallabs.com/organizations/c587ea13-249c-4ff6-a49d-231cb5297a84). According to its official website, it also organizes events focused on innovation and economic trends while advocating for community advancement (https://www.austinchamber.com/).
More information about supporting local businesses can be found at NTRocks.com.
