Plans are underway for a significant residential development in Santa Monica, California. Developer 1655 Property LLC has submitted an application to replace the existing low-rise office complex at 1655 26th Street with an eight-story apartment building. This project aims to construct 401 apartments, along with approximately 2,070 square feet of ground-floor commercial space, a rooftop deck, and semi-subterranean parking for around 419 vehicles.
Details of the Proposed Development
The proposed plans, currently under review by city officials, outline a diverse mix of residential units. The project will include studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, with 41 units earmarked as affordable housing. This allocation will utilize density-bonus incentives, which are designed to encourage the development of affordable housing within the city. According to the Santa Monica Municipal Code, these incentives allow projects to exceed standard zoning limits in exchange for on-site affordable units.
The City of Santa Monica’s published project documents indicate that this development is part of a broader effort to address housing shortages in the area. Santa Monica Mirror has provided local coverage, highlighting the potential impact on the neighborhood’s housing stock.
Architectural Design and Community Integration
The architectural design for the new building comes from AC Martin, which has envisioned a contemporary podium-style structure. The design incorporates a central courtyard and a rooftop deck, featuring a combination of stucco, brick veneer, and metal cladding. The layout aligns with recent trends in multi-family housing projects within the Bergamot/26th Street corridor, emphasizing modern aesthetics and community integration.
The semi-subterranean parking will provide convenient access for residents while minimizing the project’s footprint on the surrounding area. Additional resident amenities will be included at the base of the building, enhancing the overall living experience.
As the proposal progresses through Santa Monica’s review process, it will undergo evaluation by planning staff before public hearings are scheduled. Community members and local stakeholders will have opportunities to express their opinions on the project’s scale, design, and parking arrangements—issues that often ignite passionate discussions in local land-use debates.
If approved, this development will contribute to a growing cluster of office-to-housing conversions near the Water Garden. Another project, also designed by AC Martin, is in the pipeline for 330 apartments at 1633 26th Street, further indicating a shift towards increasing residential options in the area.
Interested parties are encouraged to monitor the City of Santa Monica’s planning calendar and local news for updates on hearing dates and project developments. The outcome will be pivotal in shaping the future of housing in this vibrant community.
