Modera Lake Merritt Housing designed to enrich Oakland’s public realm
- Client Millcreek Residential Trust
- Location Oakland, CA
- Size 161,460 sq ft
- Completion 2022
- Program Multifamily housing, recreation spaces, roof terrace, retail, coworking lounge, parking (132 stalls)
- Sustainability Targeting Green Point Rated
- Delivery Design-Build
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Photographer
Drew Kelly
Matthew Millman -
Unit Mix
Studios: 47
1-Bed: 86
2-Bed: 40
Total: 173
Over the past decade, Downtown Oakland has emerged as a thriving, mixed-use neighborhood that honors its deep-rooted history while embracing progress. Modera Lake Merritt, a new urban infill project nestled between Lakeside and Uptown, plays a key role in this transformation by addressing Oakland’s critical housing needs and stitching together the fabric of the city. Offering pet-friendly studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, the project supports economic vitality through its proximity to the Office District. Built on a former parking lot, Modera Lake Merritt thoughtfully bridges neighboring structures of varied heights and styles— from a bow-truss warehouse to bulky office buildings and a nearby high-rise. The project’s seamless connection to transit, retail, the Fox Theater, and greenways around Lake Merritt help transform the area into a walkable, vibrant neighborhood.
Activating the street
The open and inviting ground level activates the streetscape with retail, a welcoming lobby, residence lounge, co-working spaces, and a fitness center. Zinc-clad bay windows and balconies further engage public life, balancing individual expression with community connection. Horizontal bands add visual depth and character to the façade, while natural materials enhance the street’s aesthetic with understated elegance. Trees and planters blend seamlessly into the Lake Merritt greenway, anchoring the project in its surroundings.
Environmental stewardship and well-being
Maximizing density in a vibrant urban setting, Modera Lake Merritt pushes the boundaries of conventional wood framing, employing an efficient, cost-effective design that minimizes carbon. Each unit offers operable windows, and 85% feature private balconies, providing residents an exceptional amount of private outdoor space in the heart of the city. Full-height windows pull natural light into the living and kitchen areas, creating bright, inviting spaces, further enhancing residents’ comfort and health.
Sustainable Design Strategies Summary
Centrally located and integrated into Downtown Oakland’s fabric with access to BART and bus lines; transit score of 87
Ground floor lobby flexes to accommodate multifunction events for tenants
Units equipped with operable windows and direct access to fresh air
Tenants have access to the rooftop terrace
Second Floor Fitness Center has view access to the ground floor lobby and Webster Street
Community connection
The building’s amenities are designed and organized to foster community and invite discovery. The second-floor fitness center, awash in natural light, overlooks the neighborhood, enhancing the resident experience. Shared spaces like the rooftop patio, lushly planted and equipped with a kitchen, outdoor grills, and ample seating, provide a secluded retreat for entertaining set against the striking backdrop of the Oakland skyline.
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