Topscott Building Landing Photo
Tapscott
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  • Project Overview:

    The Tapscott Building rehabilitation project in Oakland, California, commenced construction in early 2020 and reached completion in 2022, aligning with the building’s centennial anniversary. This two-year endeavor transformed the long-vacant, four-story Beaux Arts structure—originally constructed in the early 1920s—into a modern mixed-use facility. The renovation included a comprehensive seismic retrofit, installation of new utility and HVAC systems, and the addition of a 5,000-square-foot penthouse office space with a 2,300-square-foot rooftop terrace. The project also restored the building’s historic brick and terra cotta façade, replicating missing architectural elements using glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) based on detailed facade surveys and mock-ups.  The Tapscott Building’s restoration serves as a cornerstone in revitalizing a previously neglected stretch of Broadway in Uptown Oakland.

    The Tapscott project in Oakland, California, is a contemporary residential development designed to provide high-quality, affordable housing in an increasingly sought-after urban area. With a focus on accessibility and sustainable living, the project aims to meet the demand for housing in Oakland while supporting the city’s growth and revitalization efforts. The Tapscott development blends modern design with functionality, offering residents a well-connected, environmentally conscious, and community-oriented living space.

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Project Objectives

  • Provide Affordable Housing: Address the growing need for affordable housing in Oakland, offering well-designed units for a diverse community.
  • Incorporate Sustainable Design: Utilize eco-friendly building materials and energy-efficient systems to promote environmental responsibility.
  • Support Urban Growth: Contribute to the ongoing revitalization of Oakland’s neighborhoods by developing a project that enhances the local housing market and community infrastructure.
  • Promote Walkability and Connectivity: Ensure easy access to public transportation, local amenities, and green spaces, fostering a connected, vibrant community.

Project Scope

  • Residential Units: Construction of multi-family housing units featuring a mix of affordable and market-rate apartments, with options for studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts.
  • Sustainable Features: Integration of energy-efficient HVAC systems, smart home technology, and solar power options, along with water-saving plumbing fixtures.
  • Community Amenities: On-site amenities include a fitness center, landscaped courtyards, outdoor seating areas, and spaces for community events.
  • Retail and Mixed-Use Elements: Ground-level commercial spaces to activate the streetscape and provide convenience for residents.
  • Transportation and Connectivity: Development of secure bike storage, EV charging stations, and easy access to public transit, including nearby BART and bus lines.

Construction Timeline

The Tapscott project followed a structured, phased development plan to ensure timely and efficient delivery:

  • Phase 1 – Planning and Approvals: Site evaluations, permitting, and community outreach to ensure alignment with local planning goals.
  • Phase 2 – Site Development: Land grading, infrastructure work, and utility installations.
  • Phase 3 – Building Construction: Structural work, apartment unit build-out, and integration of green technologies started in 2020.
  • Phase 4 – Finishing and Landscaping: Final interior and exterior work, including landscaping, public space development, and final inspections were completed in 2022.
  • Phase 5 – Leasing and Occupancy: Completion of the project with resident move-ins and retail space activation.

Sustainability and Compliance

  • Green Building Practices: The project incorporated sustainable building materials and energy-efficient construction methods, supporting Oakland’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
  • Energy Efficiency: The Tapscott development features energy-efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and appliances, as well as smart home technologies that contribute to energy conservation.
  • Stormwater Management: The project includes a comprehensive stormwater management plan, including permeable surfaces and rainwater harvesting systems to minimize environmental impact.
  • Compliance with Regulations: The project adhered to all local zoning laws, building codes, and green building certifications, including LEED or equivalent standards.

Community Impact

The Tapscott project plays a vital role in Oakland’s efforts to provide affordable and sustainable housing while supporting the city’s broader revitalization initiatives. By offering modern, accessible housing in a central location, Tapscott enhances the community’s quality of life and contributes to economic growth. The development not only meets the housing needs of a diverse range of residents but also fosters community interaction and sustainability. With its commitment to green building practices, transportation accessibility, and quality design, Tapscott helps position Oakland as a forward-thinking, environmentally conscious urban center.

  • Year

    2020

  • Location

    Oakland, California

  • Category

    Commercial

  • Project Manager

    Dana Jones

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