Brickline Flats Elevated urban living in the heart of San Mateo
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- Client Prometheus Real Estate Group
- Location San Mateo, CA
- Size 50,190 sq ft
- Completion 2023
- Program Multifamily housing, roof terrace
- Sustainability Targeting LEED Silver
- Delivery Negotiated GMP
- Photographer Jason O’Rear
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Unit Mix
Studios: 30
1-Bed: 34
Total: 64 -
Awards
Gold Nugget Award, Grand Award for Best Infill Site Plan Solution (2024)
Gold Nugget Award, Award of Merit for Best Mixed Use (2024)
Gold Nugget Award, Mixed Use Community (2024)
Architect’s Newspaper Editor’s Pick Best of Design, Residential—Mixed-Use (2024)
Just steps from a regional transit hub and a thriving downtown, Brickline anticipates the continued development of urban villages near major cities. Through materiality and site specificity, Brickline—which includes a mix of housing, offices, and retail—feels authentic to the City of San Mateo, with its walkable streets, distinct storefronts, ample open space, and blend of historic and modern architecture.
A vision for community
Paying homage to San Mateo’s distinct sense of place and strong community was important to Prometheus Real Estate Group, a family-owned company dedicated to creating homes and neighborhoods that feel authentic and foster a sense of belonging. The company—which recently opened its new headquarters onsite—was founded upon the vision to transform apartment living by attending to every inch of detail, from site selection to interiors.
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Massing and materiality
Spanning a city block, Brickline is thoughtfully organized into discrete sections to reduce its massing and harmonize with the streetscape. Brick, wood, and ribbed metal panels define the five-story residences, while cream-colored brick and punched windows distinguish the offices, echoing the scale and texture of neighboring brick and terracotta buildings. Fluted glazed terracotta panels, wood cladding, and a pronounced roof overhang add warmth and visual depth to the facades. Ground-floor retail enhances the city’s offerings, while energizing the street.
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Privacy and domain
To provide a sense of privacy and domain, residents enter through a quiet, tree-lined street sounded by neighboring homes. Transparent and light, the entry lobby evokes a traditional craftsman with warm wood tones, built-in bookcases, seating nooks, and a central stair. Thoughtful touches, like brass pendants, brushed canvas bench cushions, and a custom wall graphic inspired by William Morris’ Marigold pattern, create a welcoming and homey feel.
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Community and connection
The studios and one-bedroom apartments surround a second-floor courtyard featuring lounge seating, fire pits, and mountain views. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the units with natural light and sweeping vistas, enhancing the warm, natural materials and playful color palette. Residents enjoy views of local landmarks like San Mateo’s clock tower and the Santa Cruz Mountains. A rooftop deck, garden, and fully equipped chef’s kitchen encourage residents to “connect with others in a neighborly way,” reflecting Prometheus’ core values of community and connection.
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