The West Building is the new Cornerstone of Downtown San Diego’s Urban Renaissance

The Revitalization of Downtown San Diego: Holland Partner Group’s West

Downtown San Diego is experiencing a transformative revival, led by the innovative vision of the Holland Partner Group (HPG). At the forefront of this transformation is West, a remarkable new multi-use building that stands as a beacon of modern urban living and working. Located at 1011 Union Street, this 37-story tower offers an unprecedented blend of residential, office, and retail spaces, setting a new standard for urban development in the city. 

A Vision Realized 

Brent Schertzer, Managing Director at Holland Partner Group, has been instrumental in bringing this ambitious project to life. Winning the bid and purchasing the land marked the beginning of a three-phase project, with West being the first completed multi-use building. The tower's design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, featuring ground-floor retail spaces, seven stories of office space, and 29 stories of residential units. Crucially, the design also includes underground parking—an essential feature for any downtown development. This integrated approach ensures that West is a vibrant and "activated" building, catering to the diverse needs of its occupants.

An Artistic Touch 

One of the most distinctive features of West is its commitment to art and culture. The building’s lobby, designed with a warm hospitality décor, is both inviting and visually stunning. The space is adorned with warm woods and comfortable seating areas, creating a welcoming environment. A centerpiece of the lobby is a stunning glass sculpture by artist Nicolas Weinstein, which hangs from the ceiling and mimics the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. Additionally, the Parade Art group out of Seattle played a pivotal role in curating over 20 pieces from local and regional artists, particularly from Mexico. These artworks add a unique cultural dimension to the space, making West not just a building, but a celebration of the arts.

State-of-the-Art Amenities 

West offers a variety of modern floor plans, from studios to penthouse units, each equipped with high-end finishes and smart home technology. Residents have access to unparalleled amenities on the 9th floor, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, an outdoor fitness terrace, and a large outdoor landscaped deck. The luxurious Level 37 clubroom, rooftop pool, and spa provide expansive bay views, offering a resort-style living experience in the heart of the city.

The rooftop pool and common use lounge area rivals any downtown rooftop bar, giving the whole place a swanky vibe. And for those who might be hesitant about rooftop activities, there’s even a lifeguard tower (although you’ll have to bring your own lifeguard). 

To ensure that West is inclusive of the broader downtown community, Holland Partner Group has designated 41 low-income units, with rents set by the San Diego Housing Commission. This commitment ensures that West contributes to the city's goal of providing affordable housing, integrating a diverse range of residents into this vibrant urban community. 

Community and Connectivity 

Every historic building or landmark has a story, and while West has not yet achieved historical status, it certainly comes with a compelling narrative. The building sits on the former site of the courthouse, and as part of the revitalization project, Schertzer oversaw the creation of an underground tunnel connecting the new courthouse and the jail. This strategic move facilitated easier access and movement for City employees and Courthouse staff, showcasing the meticulous planning that went into the development of West. 

Situated in the heart of San Diego’s historic downtown, West enjoys a prime location near major public transportation hubs and local landmarks such as Little Italy, the Embarcadero, Waterfront Park, Petco Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, and East Village. This strategic positioning aligns with Holland Partner Group’s mission to enhance San Diego’s walkability and connectivity. 

West is not just a building; it’s a community. Schertzer emphasizes the project's goal to create a space that celebrates community, connection, and growth. "West is a community that infuses the spirit of San Diego culture into the heart of downtown; a blend of laid-back lifestyle and upscale urban refinement," says Schertzer. This vision is reflected in every aspect of the building, from its design and amenities to its art and location. 

A Hub for Business and Retail 

West's commercial spaces are designed to attract businesses seeking a contemporary and sustainable work environment. With 289,000 sq. ft. of office space and 10,000 sq. ft. of prime retail space, West is poised to become a central hub for downtown business activities. Retail spaces fronting W. Broadway offer vibrant, high-traffic locations ideal for restaurants and cafes, creating a lively street-level experience for both residents and visitors. 

The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) is set to move its offices to West, further solidifying the building's status as a key player in the city's economic landscape. Additionally, a soon-to-be-announced quick service restaurant is set to open in Fall 2024, adding to the building’s diverse offerings and further enhancing its role as a vibrant community hub. 

The Future of Urban Living

 West is just the beginning of Holland Partner Group's ambitious plans for downtown San Diego. The project is the first tower completed in a planned three-city-block redevelopment. The second project, The Torrey, is currently under construction and will be home to downtown’s first Whole Foods Market upon its completion in mid-2026. These projects will be interconnected by a landscape-enhanced pedestrian “green street” along Union Street, creating a seamless and vibrant urban experience. 

As of June 1st, move-ins have started at West, and this early success underscores the demand for high-quality, mixed-use developments in San Diego’s downtown area. 

A Sustainable Future 

West is pursuing both LEED and WELL certifications, underscoring HPG’s commitment to sustainability and wellness. These certifications reflect the building's adherence to high standards of environmental responsibility and occupant health. Features such as smart thermostats, keyless entry, and energy-efficient appliances contribute to a more sustainable and comfortable living environment. 

Downtown Living: The Vision Realized 

The revitalization of downtown San Diego is well underway, with West leading the charge. Holland Partner Group’s innovative approach to mixed-use development, combined with a deep commitment to art, community, and sustainability, has set a new standard for urban living. West is more than just a building; it’s a landmark that embodies the future of downtown San Diego, fostering a vibrant, connected community that celebrates the best of living, working, and leisure. 

As the city continues to grow and evolve, projects like West will play a crucial role in shaping its future. With its blend of luxury, functionality, and cultural richness, West is poised to become an iconic part of San Diego’s urban landscape, offering a glimpse into the dynamic and exciting future of downtown living.

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