Mixed-use San Diego tower inspired by coastal experience and luxury travel

The new 525 Olive mixed use San Diego tower was inspired by the coastal experience and luxury travel. The 300,000 sf, 20-story structure is connected to St. Paul’s Cathedral, located on the edge of 1600 acres of parkland and the museums of Balboa Park. Residents occupy 204 rental units (186 market rate and 18 deed-restricted low-income units). The building also houses a corner street-level retail/restaurant space.

Amenities include a rooftop pool deck with sweeping 270 degree views of San Diego from Mission Bay to the north to Mexico to the south. Several 18-foot stone arches on the feature wall are a nod to the gothic architecture of St. Paul’s Cathedral’s cloister and are visible for miles approaching the building. The fifth floor accommodates a state-of-the-art fitness deck that overlooks the treetops of Balboa Park. Additional luxury amenities include organic courtyards with outdoor seating, a pet spa with grooming stations, and conference rooms.

The building features a striking marble entry, pulling elements from the interior design out into the public street. A custom-designed installation composed of hundreds of fluttering hand-cut metal mesh butterflies adorn a see-through wall in the main lobby. The butterfly display is a reference to the surrounding parklands and natural environs.

All units were designed with high-end finishes and a soft, modern gray palette. Studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom units feature wood emulating plank flooring with quartz countertops
throughout. Kitchens are equipped with high gloss cabinetry with a herringbone marble backsplash. Washer and dryers are available in each unit.

Penthouse units feature 270 degree views, soaring 14-foot ceilings, engineered wood
flooring, and quartz countertops. All units have access to subterranean parking shared with St. Paul’s Cathedral.

The project preserves the historic architecture of the Cathedral, adding modernized and expanded spaces and upgrades to its public courtyard. Despite being in the midst of a bustling, walkable neighborhood, the location and the properties outdoor spaces afford residents an unexpected level of serenity and quiet. 

On the Building Team:
Owner and/or developer: Greystar Real Estate and Development, Joint Venture with St. Paul’s Cathedral
Design architect: Jules Wilson Design Studio and Joseph Wong Design Associates
Architect of record: Joseph Wong Design Associates
Interior design: Jules Wilson Design Studio
MEP engineer: McParlane & Associates
Structural engineer: KorStructural (Formerly known as BMZ)
General contractor/construction manager: Greystar Real Estate and Development