Where The Heck Is 555 Bartlett?

Seven Hills Properties had several choices when deciding on a name for their new 60 unit development at the corner of Mission and Cesar Chavez Streets. The address for the previous building on the lot (a pretty cool Art Moderne paint store) was 3400 Cesar Chavez. Somewhat of a mouth full which doesn't flow off the tongue that well. How about a Mission Street address? Could work, but touting a Mission Street location when the neighborhood itself is still somewhat "gritty" may put potential buyers off. They could have gone with a 'named' development. Perhaps "The Crossroads" in reference to the bustling intersection it sits at. Or maybe "Revolution", a subtle homage to Cesar Chavez himself?

In the end, Seven Hills went with 555 Bartlett, which is the alley-like street that borders the rear of the parcel. It has a nice ring to it I suppose, and at least its not some banal attempt at branding the building to evoke something its not.

I toured the development a few weeks ago and was not expecting a lot given that there is a 24 hour Walgreens in the commercial space below the units, and the transit and traffic heavy locale. Color me surprised by the spacious, well thought out floor plans, upscale finishes and pleasant views of Bernal Hill to the south. With prices starting in the low 400's for 1-bedrooms and BART and 101 blocks away, this development offers great bang for the buck in a neighborhood that is stocked with bars and restaurants.

Sales start this weekend for these surprisingly appealing Mission condominiums. Just be prepared to tell people coming to visit you that although located at the corner of Mission and Cesar Chavez, the address is 555 Bartlett.

"Revolution" would have been so much easier : )