New Eight-Story Apartment Building Planned Near SAP Center

San Jose adds has a new proposed mid-rise development in the Garden-Alameda neighborhood. Plans filed with the city show a new eight-story apartment building at 945 W. Julian St., right at the intersection with Morrison Avenue. The project would replace a house and office that currently occupy the site and bring 136 new units to the area.

The development team, headed by Anthony Ho, envisions a mix of homes suited to different needs. Twenty-eight studios would measure about 360 square feet. Fifty-four one-bedroom apartments would come in at roughly 490 square feet. Another fifty-four two-bedroom units would offer around 730 square feet each. The site covers just under a half acre.

This stretch of Julian Street already hosts the Diridon West apartments, a 249-unit project completed in recent years at the corner of Stockton Avenue. The current proposal would make use of Senate Bill 330 provisions that help expedite housing reviews across California.

Living here would put residents within easy reach of SAP Center events, from hockey games to major concerts. The spot also benefits from connections to regional transit and the broader momentum building around the Diridon station area.

City planning records describe the submission as preliminary. Final designs and details remain subject to change through the review process. Even at this stage, the plans reflect sustained interest in creating more places to call home near one of San Jose's most recognizable landmarks.

Source: The Mercury News

River Oaks Parkway Prepares for a Vibrant Residential Revival in San Jose

A significant shift is underway along River Oaks Parkway, where a former commercial hub is set to bloom into something far more lively. TPG Angelo Gordon has taken ownership of the property at 211, 251, and 281 River Oaks Parkway in a $45 million deal that signals strong confidence in San Jose's future. Those three buildings, once filled with over 160,000 square feet of office space, now stand ready to make room for a dynamic mix of homes that will reshape daily life in this corner of the city. The approved plan weaves together 505 market-rate apartments in a sleek seven-story structure, 132 affordable units in a five-story building, and 100 townhouses arranged across 14 inviting clusters. This thoughtful blend caters to everyone from young professionals chasing urban energy to families seeking roots in a welcoming setting. With approvals secured last fall, the project feels like a timely breath of fresh air amid the city's ongoing push for more housing options. Nestled right across from River Oaks Park, the site already enjoys a natural edge with green spaces, walking paths, and a neighborhood rhythm that mixes offices and existing homes. Residents will step out to tree-lined streets, nearby services, and the kind of everyday convenience that makes San Jose feel connected and alive. This kind of development adds real momentum to North San Jose, proving that even in challenging economic times, forward-thinking investments can spark genuine progress.
Source: SVBJ

Misora Apartments Signal Continued Growth at Santana Row

Santana Row stands as a premier destination in San Jose, blending shopping, dining, and living spaces into a vibrant community hub. Federal Realty now plans to market the Misora apartment complex at 388 Santana Row, a 212-unit building completed in 2014 that spans about 222,000 square feet. This move follows the recent sale of the neighboring Levare apartments for $74 million to Hines in May, reflecting strong interest in high-quality residential properties within this sought-after area.

CEO Don Wood described such sales as a core part of the company's strategy, allowing reinvestment into mixed-use environments without affecting the retail and entertainment core. Misora, positioned across from Levare, offers modern living options that complement the lively atmosphere of Santana Row, where residents enjoy walkable access to boutiques, restaurants, and events. If priced similarly per unit to Levare, the complex could fetch upwards of $145 million, underscoring the value of San Jose's real estate market.

This transition opens doors for fresh ownership to enhance the property, potentially introducing new amenities or community features that build on Santana Row's appeal. As San Jose's west side continues to thrive, developments like this reinforce the area's role as a magnet for professionals, families, and visitors seeking a blend of urban convenience and leisure.

Source: SVBJ

Ellore Luxury Senior Living Adds Onsite Wellness Program

Santa Clara has welcomed an exciting new development with Ellore, a luxury senior living community in The Clara District. Developed by Related California and operated by Oakmont Management Group, Ellore recently opened its doors across from Levi’s Stadium, offering 176 upscale residences. What sets this community apart is its Wellness by Ellore program, a comprehensive healthcare initiative that brings top-tier medical services right to residents.

The Wellness by Ellore program stands out with its Five Pillars of Elevated Care: Medical Advisement, Concierge Medicine, Ellore Med, Ellore Balance, and Traditions Memory Care. Residents enjoy personalized healthcare from day one, with assessments covering medical needs, therapy, and nutrition. Dr. Mahyar Ayati, a Stanford Affiliate with expertise in geriatric health, leads the medical advisement, while a partnership with Pine Park Health provides onsite primary care and specialists like dentists and optometrists. Physical therapy and memory care round out the offerings, ensuring residents can live with ease and confidence.

Beyond healthcare, Ellore delivers a lifestyle that matches the Bay Area’s reputation for excellence. The 20-story building, designed by Steinberg Hart with interiors by March and White Design, features stunning views of Santa Clara’s salt ponds, foothills, and Levi’s Stadium. Residents can choose independent living, assisted living, or memory care, all paired with amenities like gourmet dining at The Summit Room and a calendar full of social events. The fourth floor’s dedicated wellness suites make accessing care seamless, blending luxury with practicality. It also features one of only two penthouse swimming pools in Silicon Valley high-rises (the other is at The Fay in Downtown San Jose).

Ellore’s arrival highlights why the San Jose metro continues to grow as a standout destination. Its prime location in The Clara District puts residents near dining, parks, and transit, all while offering a fresh take on senior living that prioritizes wellness and community. For those exploring options for themselves or loved ones, Ellore showcases the high standards and forward-looking developments that define our region.

New Apartment Complex Breaks Ground at 905 Capitol Avenue

After years of being stuck in the planning stages, a sleek seven-story apartment complex is finally breaking ground, all thanks to the city’s clever multifamily housing incentive program. Led by Hanover Company, this 345-unit development is bringing much-needed homes—including affordable ones.

This project was gathering dust since getting the green light in 2022, held back by financing woes. Then San Jose stepped in with its incentive program, launched late last year, offering developers a lifeline through fee and tax breaks. For Hanover, it was the push they needed. Now, construction is rolling, with a finish line about two years out. The complex will offer a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, with 5% set aside as affordable housing for folks earning the area median income. There’s even 3,000 square feet of office space to spice things up along North Capitol Avenue.

What’s the magic behind this incentive program? It cuts costs in smart ways. Developers who include at least 5% affordable units onsite—like Hanover did—skip the usual “in-lieu” fee tied to the city’s affordable housing rules. Park fees get trimmed for projects with private amenities, and construction taxes take a hit too, with big reductions for the first 1,500 units approved by 2025. It’s a practical move that’s getting shovels in the ground and homes in the pipeline.

The perks don’t stop at housing numbers. This development sits less than half a mile from the Penitencia Creek Light Rail Station, putting public transit within easy reach. And for anyone who loves a good bike ride, the project includes two new bike lanes along North Capitol Avenue, linking up with the Penitencia Creek Trail.

Source: SVBJ

The Clara: Luxury Living and Urban Transformation in Santa Clara

The new Clara District in Santa Clara is experiencing a dramatic shift, with a surge of new residential developments turning this once-quiet area into a thriving urban center. Leading the charge is The Clara, a striking 22-story luxury apartment complex that just opened its doors to residents. Standing as the tallest building in Santa Clara and the tallest residential high-rise outside of Downtown San Jose, The Clara is a bold statement about the city’s changing identity and its ambitions for the future.

What sets The Clara apart is the lifestyle it offers. With 508 units ranging from studios to spacious three-bedroom apartments, it appeals to a wide range of residents. The amenities are just as impressive: a cutting-edge gym, a 75-foot lap pool, a hot tub, cold plunges, a spa, and a sauna room provide everything needed for fitness and relaxation without leaving the property. On the penthouse floor, a Capital Club-style lounge offers incredible views of Silicon Valley, the Bay, and Levi's Stadium. There is even a swanky karaoke room and media lounge up top. Quite frankly, it's the most luxurious high-rise apartment project south of San Francisco.

Alongside The Clara, its sister development, Ellore, adds 176 senior living units and together they bring 30,000 square feet of retail space to the neighborhood. Soon, shops, restaurants, and services will line the streets, creating a lively community where daily life feels seamless and connected.

Between The Clara and Ellore is a brand new half-acre playground that is available for all Silicon Valley residents. It's very nicely done with multiple climbing features and a tandem swing. My daughter loved taking it for a test drive. The park is entirely funded and maintained by the developer, Related California. Speaking of which, Related California is also contributing $3 million for public schools, $11 million for improvements to public infrastructure, $11 million in community contributions, and $12 million for affordable housing.

This wave of development in the Clara District—part of a $700 million investment—fits into a broader vision of a “live, work, play” destination. Seven high-rise projects will deliver nearly 2,000 new homes, transforming a landscape once dotted with single-story commercial buildings into a dense, residential hub. The impact extends beyond Santa Clara, contributing to the South Bay’s growth and addressing the region’s pressing need for housing. For San Jose residents, this transformation next door could spark inspiration. The blend of luxury living, retail, and public spaces in the Clara District offers a blueprint that could one day enhance neighborhoods outside of Downtown San Jose and Santana Row, making our city even more dynamic and welcoming.

Ready to see this change for yourself? The Clara District invites you to explore its luxury apartments, upcoming retail offerings, and the promise of a reimagined Santa Clara. As the South Bay evolves, this neighborhood stands as a testament to what’s possible and a hint at what might lie ahead for San Jose. We'll have more

San Jose affordable housing development proposed for Berryessa

San Jose-based Swenson is proposing a 260-unit affordable housing complex at 1655 Berryessa Road, near the Berryessa BART station (8 minute walk). It would be built in a section of a 13-acre site where a total of 646 homes are planned.

The affordable homes would be placed in a six-story apartment building next to a seven-story apartment building with 338 market-rate units and a mix of 48 townhomes and single-family homes.

Originally the site was going to feature much needed micro-homes, a product that rarely exists in the South Bay. However, the developers were not able to get financing and had to pivot to a more traditional type of housing.

Source: The Mercury News

Residential midrise in North San Jose takes a step forward

A 118-unit residential building has been proposed for 380 North First Street. This is a just a few blocks north of St. James Park and on the border of what you would typically consider Downtown San Jose.

The project is seven stories tall and sits on just half an acre. Not much is listed regarding amenities, but the project would have 74 parking spaces. 18 of the units will be reserved for low-income households.

Currently on the site is a 12,000 SQFT building and 20 trees that would make to be removed in order to make way for the new construction.

Source: SF YIMBY

Latest renderings for a massive North San Jose residential project

A major infill development at 211-281 River Oaks Parkway is starting to come into focus. The project would have 737 residential units broken down into 637 apartments and 100 townhomes. 132 of the units would be reserved for affordable housing. The market rate homes will range from 536 to 1,290 SQFT for apartments and 1,230 to 1,790 SQFT for the townhomes. Enough parking would be built to accommodate 891 cars and 345 bicycles.

The location is quite good, as it is right in the middle of the Golden Triangle with easy access to San Jose's tech jobs. It's also facing Crescent Village and it's popular crescent shaped park. Several great restaurants would be a short walk away--shout out to Laksana Thai and Curry Up Now.

The developer is expecting to start construction on the townhomes by November 2026 and the apartments in the middle of 2028.

Source: SF YIMBY

524 new apartments proposed near Santana Row

A site previously entitled for a 882,000 SQFT office and retail project has pivoted to housing. This proposal by Holland Partner Group is at the intersection of Stevens Creek and Saratoga Ave., just a few minutes drive away from Santana Row and Valley Fair.

The project would have two eight-story residential buildings, both of which would wrap around a central courtyard. Of the 524 proposed units, 5% would be designated as affordable to very-low-income households.

The ground floor would be able to accommodate two fitness centers and plans also include a co-working space. One of the goals would be to enhance the pedestrian experience for the areas fronting Stevens Creek and Saratoga Ave., and part of that would be creating brand new public gathering spaces.

While it may not be as lucrative as an office building long-term, this proposal would be a major improvement for the corner at 3896 Stevens Creek Boulevard.

Source: The Mercury News

860 West San Carlos Street in San Jose shifts from market-rate to affordable housing

A proposed 12-story apartment building in San Jose's Midtown is switching from market-rate to 100% affordable housing. It is also getting more units, going from 263 to 272 units. The project is backed by Swenson and Republic Urban Properties.

The main reason for the change seems to be financing. Affordable housing has more potential funding sources. Falling interest rates should also help move this project around.

There is still no ETA but updated permits is a good sign that the project is still alive and kicking.

Source: SF YIMBY

San Jose becomes the first city in California to allow homeowners to sell ADUs

In order to solve for housing shortages, skyrocketing rents, and dizzying mortgages we have to think outside the box. San Jose just took a significant step to increase the housing supply and provide more low cost options.

San Jose already is one of the most accommodating cities when it comes to building an ADU (accessory dwelling unit) on your property. On a typical single-family lot, a homeowner can build a detached ADU up to 1,000 SQFT or an attached ADU up to 800 SQFT. Now, instead of just renting out the ADU, you can actually sell it as a condominium.

This will encourage more people to built them in their backyards and open up low-cost homeownership for more people, especially those early on in their careers. Some ADUs are quite nice, like the 500 SQFT one mentioned in the source link below.

San Jose is already receiving four times as many requests to build ADUs as San Francisco. In fact, even homebuilders like Robson Homes are including them as options for new housing projects in San Jose. 

Source: ABC7 News

1,472 new homes headed to Seely Avenue in North San Jose

There are only a few empty lots left for development in North San Jose, one one of those is at Montague Expressway and Seely Avenue right along the Coyote Creek. The land currently has farmland and orchards, which somehow have survived over the decades right in the middle of Silicon Valley.

The proposal on the table today would add 1,472 residential units and retail between three developers: Hanover Company, Pacific Companies, and SummerHill Homes. The total project would be a whopping 2.3 million SQFT, with 1.7 million SQFT for housing, half a million SQFT for parking, and 16,120 SQFT for retail. 

Most of the housing would be 1,140 market-rate apartments which would wrap around a new public park. 178 units would be affordable housing and 154 units would be townhomes. Of the apartments, 159 would be studios, 737 are one-bedrooms, 368 are two-bedrooms, and 54 are three-bedrooms. Parking would support 1,967 cars and 944 bicycles.

Construction would last about four years from the initial groundbreaking, for which there is no ETA yet.

Source: SF YIMBY

New renders for impressive Willow Glen apartment midrise

A midrise proposal at 940 Willow Street has a new look. The 86-foot-tall project will be just a couple blocks away from San Jose's ritzy Downtown Willow Glen neighborhood. Excellent restaurants like The Table, Copia, and Bill's are a five minute walk away.

The building will total 183,750 SQFT, half of which is for housing, 15,600 SQFT is amenity space, a whopping 56,200 SQFT will be for parking, and 1,800 SQFT is allocated for retail. There will be a total of 126 apartment units (26 designated as affordable) and 135 parking spaces. The product mix will be: 52 studios, 50 one-bedrooms, 20 two-bedrooms, and four townhome-style units with three bedrooms at street level.

The design is beautiful, especially for a midrise building. I like the pool area and podium cutouts. I've included a few bonus renders on other projects this design studio is working on at the bottom which are also in San Jose.

A single-story commercial building will need to be torn down (image below) and I think you'll agree the tradeoff is worth it. There is no current ETA, but the sooner the better.

Source: SF YIMBY, siliconvalleyjoe from Skyscraper City

What this area looks like now in Willow Glen:

Bonus render for another proposal at 4th & Julian in Downtown San Jose:

Bonus render for another proposal at Alvin Ave. in East San Jose:

372 apartments move forward at a former San Jose DMV site

A former DMV in central San Jose near History Park and the intersection of Senter and Tully is going to be transformed into a 372-unit apartment complex called "The Place." The apartments would be split across three seven-story buildings with a more interesting design then you would expect from your typical midrise.

The apartments themselves would range from studios to two-bedroom units with two bathrooms. 112 of the apartments will be studios, 200 are one-bedroom, and 60 are two-bedroom units.

The one-story office building that housed the DMV would be demolished to make way from this project. The neighborhood is mostly office and industrial with a Costco across the street. The best escape-games in San Jose are a couple blocks away at OMESCAPE and you also have Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, History Park, the Japanese Friendship Gardens, Kelly Park, Sharks Ice, and the San Jose Giants less than a mile away. It's actually a pretty decent area to start building dense housing.

The next step is a series of city reviews this month.

Source: The Mercury News

Building code update would make it much easier for anyone to own an EV in San Jose

San Jose is essentially ground zero for electric cars. Nearly 30% of new car sales are electrified and it has one of the highest concentrations of EVs in the world. Next week the San Jose City Council is going to vote on whether to make EVs even more accessible to everyone. The proposal is to have each multi-family residence with parking to have at least once space that is EV-ready.

Charging an EV where you live is a lot more convenient than going to to a charging station. It's extremely easy to charge where you live for San Jose homeowners with a detached home or even a townhome, but things get complicated when you live in an apartment complex.

It's also worth mentioning that this would not be retroactive. The vote would be to update the building code for all future multi-family developments. 

Opponents could argue that we desperately need housing and this would be another cost to discourage builders, but given how the car market is going I think most people will expect this in any new apartment they rent in the next 5-10 years. Also, a fair compromise would be to require a 120v outlet instead of the more expensive, but much faster 220v. A standard 120v outlet is cheap and powerful enough to add 50-60 miles per night on an EV, which is enough for 99% of drivers. 

Source: San Jose Spotlight

New housing development proposed in North San Jose

250 apartments are being eyed in North San Jose at North First Street between Charcot and East Brokaw. Currently there is a 122,500 SQFT six-story office building on the site. It's not clear if this is an office conversion or they are planning to tear down and replace the building. Given the size of the building there already, my bet is on an office-to-housing conversion.

Source: The Mercury News

San Jose approves 913 apartments east of Downtown

San Jose has given the green light for a major housing project near Little Portugal and Roosevelt Park. The 913 apartment development will be one of the anchors of the Five Wounds Urban Village plan, centered around a future BART station and a historic 109-year-old church.

There will be a total of six buildings, and 407 of the units will be priced as below market-rate. Most of those "affordable" units will be priced for people earning up to 80% of the median income, which is $96,000 for a single person and $137,000 for a household of four.

235 of the apartment will be built on 1.5 acres at 1298 Tripp Avenue and will be called Residencias Arianna. It will replace 40 existing apartments and two single-family homes with a single six-story building.

The other five buildings will be on 3.3 acres of land at 1325 E. Julian St. Three buildings will rise to be 10 stories tall and the fourth will be six stories. This is respectable density for this neighborhood.

The project also includes 15,000 SQFT of commercial space on the ground floors and 267 parking spaces shared among all of the apartments. That's right, not everyone will get a space. However with multiple bus lines and eventually BART servicing the area, it might be one of those few neighborhoods in San Jose where you can get around without a car.

Groundbreaking is scheduled for 2024 and it will take around three years to complete.

Source: San Jose Spotlight