PROJECT OVERVIEW

Precast concrete construction is replacing traditional masonry with its fresh, modern take on the old standards. It can be found in residential projects throughout the city, but the newest example is 50 Jones, a 13-story high-rise in San Francisco’s emerging Mid-Market neighborhood. Clad in faceted precast concrete of two contrasting colors, the result is a durable, modern, and contextual design.

Read more about this project in the Summer 2023 issue of Ascent.

PRECAST SOLUTION

The apartments at 50 Jones have brought housing to one of San Francisco’s emerging neighborhoods, converting a parking lot frequented by drug dealers into a building that fits into the character of the Mid-Market neighborhood. The use of prefabricated panels and preglazing increased efficiencies, kept costs down, and maintained visual interest.

Architect

Solomon Cordwell Buenz

Owner

Shorenstein Development

Contractor

Swinerton Builders

Engineer

IMEG Corp.

Precast Concrete Producer

Willis Construction Co. Inc.

Key Project Attributes

• Large windows allow plentiful natural light into the units but challenged the precaster with their narrow concrete perimeters.
• Given the proximity of the property line, the project team paid special attention to the exterior skin profile depths and the rentable interior.
• The new building is full of amenities, including a rooftop terrace, bicycle room, fitness room, and below-grade parking, and the 303 market-rate apartments are a great fit in the bustling neighborhood.

Project/Precast Scope

• The 13-story, 295,000-square-foot apartment building is clad in articulated precast concrete of slate gray and earth-toned colors.
• Clad in faceted precast concrete of two contrasting colors, the result is a durable, modern, and contextual
• Project included 195 precast concrete panels covering 37,500 square feet