Westbank & Urban Community Set to Construct 540 Net-Zero Apartments in Downtown San Jose

In the heart of Downtown San Jose, a groundbreaking collaboration between Westbank and Urban Community is set to transform urban living with the construction of a 540-unit apartment tower, known as Orchard Residential. The developers, based in Vancouver and San Jose, are committed to pioneering environmentally friendly projects that go beyond conventional architecture.

A New Dawn in SoFa

Scheduled to commence construction in the upcoming spring, Orchard Residential is positioned to rejuvenate the landscape at 409 South Second Street. The tower, approved in late 2022, stands as a testament to the developers' vision for a sustainable and vibrant downtown. This ambitious project replaces the former Bo Town restaurant, closed for five years, while ingeniously preserving its iconic structure.

Net-Zero Downtown Campus

Westbank and Urban Community's commitment to environmental sustainability extends beyond Orchard Residential. The developers envision a "net-zero" Downtown campus, characterized by carbon neutrality and an abundance of greenery. The three net-zero projects, including Orchard Residential, promise a vertical oasis with trees, vines, and plants adorning stairways, terraces, and rooftops. The fusion of nature and architecture is poised to redefine the cityscape.

Bridging Nature and Innovation

One of the three visionary projects, Park Habitat, broke ground in April 2022 at 180 Park Avenue. This 20-story office and retail tower, slated for completion next year, not only expands the Tech Interactive museum but also introduces a revolutionary concept. The 1.2 million-square-foot complex integrates gardens and a "green lung" ventilation system, creating a harmonious space where work and nature coexist seamlessly.

Bank of Italy Building Transformation

In a nod to history, Westbank and Urban Community are set to breathe new life into the century-old Bank of Italy building at 12 South First Street. Plans for this historic landmark, listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, involve a transformation into up to 150 homes. This preservation project, designed by Henry Minton in 1926, underscores the developers' commitment to marrying modern living with the rich tapestry of San Jose's architectural heritage.