Located near Oakland’s Uptown district, The Moran was designed as a community-focused alternative to the typical Bay Area multifamily building. Rather than follow the standard formula of housing over a concrete podium, the design takes advantage of its irregular, trapezoidal site to create something unique.

The 78-unit building features a cascading series of courtyards and stairways from the fifth floor to the first, forming a vertical landscape that encourages resident interaction. Each level offers seating and landscaping, while the upper courtyard opens to sunlight and sweeping views of Downtown Oakland and San Francisco, complete with a rooftop terrace, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, and lounge.

Additional outdoor spaces—including private balconies, open-air courtyards, and a grand roof deck—further support connection and community.

The façade reflects the vibrancy of the neighborhood with a bold color palette, rhythmic windows, and a welcoming entry framed by ground-level amenities. Playful silver “bobbles,” created in partnership with the Oakland Arts Program, add a lively, artistic touch.

The Moran received a Golden Nugget Award for Multifamily Design.