500 Folsom is a 42-story luxury apartment tower that has become a defining landmark in San Francisco’s skyline. Developed by Essex Property Trust and designed by the renowned architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), this high-rise offers a mix of market-rate and below-market-rate residences in the city’s fast-growing East Cut neighborhood.
In This Article
Key Points
- 500 Folsom Apartments is a skyline-defining landmark in San Francisco
- Developed by Essex Property Trust and designed by SOM
- Offers a mix of luxury and affordable residences in San Francisco’s housing market
The Architectural Marvel of 500 Folsom
SOM’s innovative design for 500 Folsom features a stacked composition that echoes the scale of the neighborhood. The building’s facade is punctuated by a series of alternating vertical spaces, red terracotta, and residential balconies. The terracotta crown is a signature element that sets 500 Folsom apart from other high-rises in the area.
The development also incorporates sustainable design and green living features, making it an environmentally conscious choice for residents who value eco-friendly living.
Essex Property Trust: Pioneering Luxury Living
Essex Property Trust’s vision for 500 Folsom was to create a luxury living experience that balances high-end amenities with affordability. The building offers a mix of market-rate and below-market-rate units, catering to a diverse range of residents.
Amenities at 500 Folsom include:
- A spa
- Indoor-outdoor recreation areas
- State-of-the-art fitness center
- Resident lounges
- Co-working spaces
The East Cut Neighborhood: A Mixed-Use Community
500 Folsom is located in the East Cut, a neighborhood undergoing significant redevelopment and transformation. The high-density mixed-use community is becoming a vibrant hub for living, working, and recreation.
The development’s two mid-rise podiums, designed by Fougeron Architecture, anchor the tower and form an outdoor paseo that connects Folsom Street to Clementina Street and the nearby Oscar Park. These community spaces enhance the local living experience and foster a sense of neighborhood cohesion.
Transit Center District: The Heart of Urban Mobility
500 Folsom’s strategic location within the Transit Center District offers residents unparalleled access to public transportation and urban amenities. The development’s below-grade parking helps reduce traffic congestion in this high-density area, while promoting the use of alternative transportation methods.
Economic Insights: Rental Revenue and Investment Potential
The luxury residences at 500 Folsom present an attractive opportunity for investors interested in the short-term rental market. With rental rates starting at $3,500 per month for units ranging from 480 to 1,366 square feet, the development offers a compelling cash-on-cash return potential.
As San Francisco’s housing market continues to evolve, developments like 500 Folsom are likely to have a significant impact on local real estate trends, setting new standards for luxury living and urban redevelopment.
Social Dynamics: Gentrification and Community
The development of 500 Folsom and other luxury residences in the East Cut has raised concerns about gentrification and its impact on the existing community. While the building contributes to the neighborhood’s transformation, it is essential to address issues related to social equity and the displacement of long-time residents.
Balancing development and community needs is a complex challenge that requires ongoing dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders, including developers, local government, and community organizations.
Exploring San Francisco: Beyond 500 Folsom
San Francisco is renowned for its iconic skyline, and skyscrapers like 500 Folsom play a significant role in shaping the city’s identity. Residents of 500 Folsom are well-positioned to explore the best of what San Francisco has to offer, from world-class dining and cultural attractions to outdoor recreation and scenic views.
Some notable places to visit near 500 Folsom include:
- Salesforce Park
- San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
- Yerba Buena Gardens
- Ferry Building Marketplace
FAQ
What makes 500 Folsom stand out among San Francisco’s luxury residences?
500 Folsom’s distinctive architectural design, featuring a terracotta crown and alternating vertical spaces, sets it apart from other luxury residences in San Francisco. The building also offers a range of high-end amenities and a prime location in the East Cut neighborhood.
How does Essex Property Trust ensure a balance between luxury and affordability at 500 Folsom?
Essex Property Trust has incorporated a mix of market-rate and below-market-rate units at 500 Folsom, catering to a diverse range of residents and income levels. This approach helps to promote a more inclusive living environment.
What amenities can residents of 500 Folsom expect?
Residents of 500 Folsom can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a spa, indoor-outdoor recreation areas, a state-of-the-art fitness center, resident lounges, and co-working spaces.
How does 500 Folsom contribute to the East Cut’s redevelopment?
500 Folsom is a key component of the East Cut’s ongoing redevelopment, which aims to create a vibrant, mixed-use community. The development’s outdoor paseo and connection to nearby Oscar Park help to enhance the local living experience and foster a sense of neighborhood cohesion.
What are the investment potentials for 500 Folsom apartments in the current market?
With rental rates starting at $3,500 per month and a prime location in San Francisco’s fast-growing East Cut neighborhood, 500 Folsom apartments offer an attractive investment opportunity, particularly in the short-term rental market. The development’s luxury amenities and potential for cash-on-cash returns make it an appealing choice for investors.
