23-Story Residential Tower with Curved Glass Façade Proposed at 1520 7th Street in Santa Monica

A proposed high-rise at 1520 7th Street in Santa Monica is defined by a vertically expressed glass envelope that subtly shifts as it rises, creating a form that departs from a typical straight-walled tower. Renderings depict a structure whose exterior surface curves and expands near the upper floors, giving the building a tapered profile that changes its appearance depending on viewing angle.

The façade is composed primarily of transparent glazing, allowing the tower to read as a continuous reflective surface rather than a series of stacked floors. This treatment contrasts with the lower levels, where the base of the building is articulated as a heavier podium element. At street level, vertical slats and solid cladding introduce a more grounded condition, visually anchoring the tower above.

1520 7th Street Entrance via Ottinger Architects

Above the podium, residential levels are organized within the glass volume, which wraps the structure in a consistent material expression. Balconies appear recessed within the façade, maintaining the smooth outer surface while adding depth to the elevations. The uppermost portion of the building introduces a slight outward flare, reinforcing the distinction between the tower’s crown and its midsection.

1520 7th Street via Ottinger Architects

The project is planned as a 23-story structure rising to approximately 256 feet, with 119 residential units in a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts. Five of the units are designated as affordable housing. Parking for 216 vehicles is proposed within a combination of above- and below-grade levels.

Hankey Capital is listed as the developer of the project, with design work by Ottinger Architects. The site, located between 1518 and 1524 7th Street, currently contains a smaller residential building that would be replaced as part of the redevelopment.

1520 7th Street Amenity Deck via Ottinger Architects

Positioned in Downtown Santa Monica, the proposal adds to a growing group of high-rise residential projects in the area, introducing a tower form that emphasizes transparency and curvature rather than a rectilinear massing approach.

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