VESPR at 24th and HarrisonVESPR Mixed-Use Development Activates Oakland’s Broadway Auto Row

Developing an identity for a new residential mixed-use project in the heart of Oakland’s Broadway Auto Row, named for the main thoroughfare’s history of car dealerships and automotive services dating to 1912. The design team sought to weave together the aspirations of a neighborhood, distinguishing the community with a design worthy of the place.

Initially planned as separate buildings, the elevated residential tower topping the parking garage is wrapped with retail, maximizing functionality and programmable space.

The tower design combines interlocking forms representing Oakland’s multicultural milieu. Street-level retail activates the pedestrian realm flanking the residential lobby.

The L-shaped tower is oriented to maximize daylight for the podium, while providing residential units views of the Oakland Hills, Lake Merritt and San Francisco Bay.

The podium space creates an internally-focused urban oasis with views to Lake Merritt, and the sky deck/lounge on the 18th level provides indoor and exterior amenity space with views across Oakland to San Francisco Bay.

VESPR includes a percent-for-art program, with two separate installations that benefit residents and the neighborhood. The project is targeting LEED Silver certification and is scheduled to open June 2021.