Not only did Hilton provide the vision, but he gave Lea, Rusty Hebert, the contractor, and others working on the project a great deal of freedom regarding both the project's design and construction. Metropolis was part of the Austin Green Building Program and was built according to green building codes. The project features an array of design components that are much more environmentally friendly than those used in its predecessor. The original driveway paving material was combined with new asphalt for paving throughout the complex. Walls were plastered instead of painted.
Floors are hand-stained concrete with carpet used minimally in offices and the clubhouse TV rooms.
Finishes were used sparingly to minimize out gassing. The Xeriscaped landscape design requires less watering. Building green was an important part in how this project was developed both from a social and a marketing perspective. Part of this decision was based on Lea's design. However, the construction strategy also impacted the design.