Related California's 700 Broadway project integrates urban density with residential wellness through a combination of architectural and interior strategies. The development brings together design partners Large Architecture, Marmol Radziner, and Studio-MLA to address both pedestrian engagement and resident experience in downtown Santa Monica.
© Related | Marmol Radziner
Phoebe Yee, Executive Vice President of Design at Related California (left) and Stephanie Hobbs, Design Principal at Marmol Radziner (right).
Phoebe Yee, a project lead at Related California, describes the collaboration: "This project was a hands-on and collaborative effort for the entire Related California team. We brought together a dynamic group of design partners, Large Architecture, Marmol Radziner, and Studio-MLA, each of whom played a role in bringing 700 Broadway to life."
© Mike Schwartz
Co-working lounge.
The concept of "Balance of Space" guided spatial planning from public streetscapes to private residences. Phoebe explains, "Within the residences, light wood cabinetry and flooring, paired with honed countertops and backsplashes, cultivate a serene, nature-inspired environment." Materiality underpins this strategy, with natural stone, wood, wool, and metal finishes applied to communal and private areas alike.
Wellness-oriented design was a central consideration, addressing the transition from Santa Monica's urban activity to interior decompression. "Natural colour tones, authentic materials, and the thoughtful use of Southern California's sunlight all work together to support moments of decompression and overall well-being," Phoebe says.
© Mike Schwartz
The Reserve Bar.
Stephanie Hobbs of Marmol Radziner highlights how site context shaped design decisions: "The building is oriented in such a way to create a generously sized central courtyard that is activated by several tenant amenities. This central courtyard provides a way to get ample natural light into the interior of the complex, with expansive window walls in the majority of the interior amenity spaces." Spatial flow between interior and exterior was a key objective, with a visual and physical link to the surrounding streetscape.
The project also emphasises durability and longevity in materials. Phoebe notes, "Every material at 700 Broadway was selected for its durability, timelessness, and ability to age beautifully. Natural stones, authentic woods, and handmade tiles develop a natural patina over time, which contributes to a sense of long-term beauty."
© Mike Schwartz
Exteriors.
Lighting, layout, and furniture specification were coordinated to reinforce wellness objectives. Open sightlines, daylight penetration, layered interior lighting, and furniture with tactile surfaces create environments intended to support mental well-being.
Urban density posed challenges for wellness-driven design, which the team addressed through vertical zoning and communal outdoor spaces. A ¾-acre private park, The Grove, sits at the center of the development, creating a buffer from street activity while maintaining visual connectivity. "The mature 100-year-old olive trees and landscaping give The Grove a sense of permanence and authenticity," Phoebe says.
© Mike Schwartz
Lincoln Corridor, Santa Monica.
Looking forward, the project reflects wider trends in residential design that integrate wellness and neighborhood engagement. Phoebe adds, "Modern renters are looking for homes that connect them to their community and surrounding neighborhood, where wellness, convenience, and design are seamlessly intertwined."
700 Broadway demonstrates the integration of urban context, material strategy, and wellness-oriented interiors in contemporary residential design, offering a model for projects where urban density intersects with the demand for private, decompression-focused spaces.
More information:
Marmol Radziner
12210 Nebraska Avenue
CA 90025
310 826 6222
[email protected]
www.marmol-radziner.com
Los Angeles
Related California
18201 Von Karman Avenue
Suite 900
(949) 660-7272
www.relatedcalifornia.com
California
