Highwater
Highwater was developed by Greystar Development to lead the Silicon Valley market. We worked with the San Francisco Greystar office and Studio T Square Architecture for over eight years to bring Highwater to the market. The site in Redwood City is next to the light rail system between Cupertino (Apple) and San Francisco (Twitter/X). Greystar had purchased four parcels and spent a decade building the first three projects. We were hired for the fourth project, Highwater, the flagship of the entire development. We were charged with creating interiors that would earn the top rent rate in Silicon Valley: a literal high-water mark for the entire region. Our design was focused on creating enduring architectural interiors that were layered with a dash of San Francisco fashion. We created a standard of quality based on a quiet luxury that would attract the digitally connected population and delivered spaces that would shelter and connect residents in the bustling technology business.
Client
Greystar Development
Location
Redwood City, California
The eight-story building, set above a full block underground parking garage, presents a classic architectural façade. A mix of brick, stone, and stucco adds depth and texture, bringing an urban rhythm to the exterior. Fronting the iconic Camino Real, the leasing office and lobby enjoy prominent street-side views, their warm glow turning the building into a lantern at night and drawing potential residents inside.
The expansive lobby lounge is designed for both passersby and those seeking a quiet pause. Hospitality-inspired furnishings create a sense of welcome, while stone floors and oversized wood columns lend structure and formality. Floating art walls showcase vibrant abstract works, and custom glass globe pendants drift across the ceiling like jewelry.
Beyond the grand glass doors, the leasing experience unfolds as a curated boutique environment. Soft curves and modern patterns define the interiors, while custom desks by furniture designer Paul Rene with steel waterfall countertops add a tailored edge. Multiple desks, offices, and lounges give the Greystar team the space to guide prospects and residents through an elevated and seamless leasing process.
hospitality-driven design
Greystar prioritizes hospitality-driven design, creating interiors that foster connection and encourage interaction. Spaces are stylish, memorable, and stand out in a competitive market. They combine timeless materials and architectural elements with unexpected details, delivering both sophistication and surprise. These interiors set the standard, showcasing Greystar’s expertise in development and market return.
Technology professionals in Silicon Valley are always on the move, navigating a region with challenging transportation and an underdeveloped housing market while seeking accommodations that offer real value. They look for workplaces that maximize engagement and efficiency, and aim to build networks of family, friends, and community to support a quality life. Highwater offers a variety of work and entertainment spaces designed for the modern resident. The community lounge encourages connection in a professional and elevated setting. Attached to the central courtyard, the two-story space provides large meeting places for start-ups to connect and brainstorm and smaller niches for private business connections or a luxury coffee bar for that soft business pitch. A separate workspace provides work pods for residents to work and connect from home in a professional environment.
Highwater debuted with the only rooftop pool in Silicon Valley. Though modest in size, the deck offers sweeping views of the Valley and the surrounding mountains. An intimate lounge adjacent to the pool delivers an exclusive club experience for residents and their guests. Its dark, moody interior offers a stylish escape from the local scene, where luxurious materials and contemporary furnishings create a provocative, entertaining atmosphere. Playful pop-art featuring regal dogs adds a touch of whimsy, sparking conversation and delight. With a media center, full-service bar, and built-in wine dispenser, the lounge has everything needed for an engaging evening. In a region where gathering spaces are rare, Highwater prioritizes environments where residents can connect and entertain. Its glamorous design keeps Highwater at the forefront of Silicon Valley lifestyle.
