From ADU to 20-storey tower

What began as a backyard ADU request evolved into a 20-story, 169-unit student housing tower through YCA’s strategic vision and deep knowledge of zoning and state housing law. By coupling the intricacies of Southside Berkeley’s recent upzoning with California’s Density Bonus provisions, we guided our client from a modest infill concept to a transformative, high-density community just steps from UC Berkeley.

The tower will deliver 169 residential units including 26 affordable ones, with 19 designated as replacement below-market-rate housing—far exceeding early projections of 117 units. Inside, amenity-rich design brings community and comfort throughout: a furnished lobby with mini‑bar and café seating, bike parking, and floor‑level amenity spaces on multiple floors. A rooftop deck offers sweeping views toward downtown Oakland and San Francisco. YCA added value as a creative and strategic development collaborator, shaping entitlement strategy, maximizing site potential, and unlocking significant housing opportunity in a contested, transit-rich neighborhood.