SAN FRANCISCO—Early yesterday morning, we reported that Equity Residential's 340 Fremont, the new modern landmark 40-story tower here in the Rincon Hill district of San Francisco, had officially moved dirt. In an update of that story, at the groundbreaking ceremony, San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee noted that “We are seeing new housing construction all around us because there is a renewed investor confidence in our City.”

According to Mayor Lee, “we need to make sure San Francisco remains a City for everyone.” With that in mind, Lee noted that “I have set forth a new goal to complete at least 30,000 new and rehabilitated homes by 2020.” He added that Equity Residential is helping reach that goal.

Jim Kelly, first vice president of development for Equity Residential, said that “We brought together a smart and talented team of local partners, which has resulted in an innovative approach to a high-rise, urban living environment that will be distinctively San Francisco. From the spectacular views; to onsite amenities including a club house, expansive outdoor courtyards and kitchens, and of course a fitness center featuring high-end equipment; to the more unexpected extras such as a lounge and demonstration kitchen; a dog spa; and bike facilities with a repair room. 340 Fremont will clearly offer an unparalleled, for-lease living environment in SOMA.”           

One of those local partners includes San Francisco-based Handel Architects LLP, the architect of record on both the exterior and interior design, which also offered some insight into the design and materials being featured in 340 Fremont.

According to Glenn Rescalvo, partner with Handel Architects, “The architectural design brings a sense of lightness to the 40-story tower, while maximizing the views of the Bay, Twin Peaks and the city. The tower is essentially designed in three distinct components, resulting in a slender profile. The west façade features curving glass with vertical fins; creating a distinctive moiré pattern on the building. The center massing of the project is more robust, utilizing a precast concrete system with a weave pattern. The north facing façade has floor to ceiling glass that's reflective of the water and sky, allowing for dramatic panoramic views of the Bay.” 

Rescalvo adds, “It's important to note that the materials and the overall palette have been strongly considered alongside the architecture. The precast spine which appears to be supporting the west and north glass facades is in a light tone, which is reflective of many neighboring buildings in the downtown area; the glassier facades have a silvery blue tint which reflects the blues in the sky and the bay, and the mullions are all silver, yet again an expression of the water's reflection. Upon completion, it's going to be an absolutely spectacular residential landmark tower.”           

Other San Francisco-based team members on 340 Fremont include general contractor Suffolk Construction; and landscape architect, Cliff Lowe Associates.