Why OC Condos Are Growing in Popularity

McLarand: “Whether they are downsizing or looking for their first place, people are seeking smaller living spaces with amplified amenities, close to retail and services.”

IRVINE, CA—A limited supply of condos in the Orange County market driving demand and a shift toward the urban, walkable lifestyle that embraces the convenience of nearby office and retail amenities are helping drive the condo market, MVE + Partners principal Matt McLarand tells GlobeSt.com. The firm is designing the recently approved Blue Bay, a seven-story, 120-unit, luxury condo project in the Irvine Business Complex here that will be developed by Natura City.

Blue Bay will feature contemporary architecture that aims to bring an elevated urban character to the IBC. It’s innovative load-bearing metal structure will allow for more glass and transparency, resulting in a sleek design and expansive mountain views. The development features an elevated amenity and pool deck, along with a townhome street frontage. Located near the Diamond Jamboree shopping center in IBC—an area that used to be a traditional suburban industrial park with only office, industrial and commercial buildings—Blue Bay will feature units ranging from 842-square-foot one-bedrooms to 2,260-square-foot four-bedrooms. Construction is set to start at the end of 2017, with completion slated for the end of 2019.