In 2007, artist/sculptor and longtime resident of West Oakland, Bruce Beasley, condominiumized Union Street lofts with the help of architect Thomas Dolan. His goal was that “repurposing of long unused infrastructure in West Oakland would provide an infusion of vitality into the neighborhood without pushing out longtime residents.” Close to West Oakland BART, freeway access to the Bay Bridge, Emeryville and Jack London Square, this large, spacious live/work loft is filled with natural light, charm and character. A corner unit with a south and southwest orientation, it has huge, industrial steel windows on both sides, high beamed ceilings, hardwood floors and much flexibility for the use of spaces. The living and dining rooms are double volume and the upper floor has operable skylights in the bedrooms and bathrooms. The owners are using the main level space adjacent to the living room as 2 bedrooms, separated by a “soft” wall and a washer, dryer and water heater in a closet bedroom. There are 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a large hall closet upstairs. A closet in one of the bedrooms is being used as an alcove for a child’s bed. Both upper level bedrooms have windows onto the living and dining rooms. A library ladder for the bookshelf in the living room will be functional by the close of escrow. The building has 15 residential units and 4 commercial ones. The access to #17 is through the gate at 1232 19th St. There is a central courtyard for use by all the home owners. In addition to the washer and dryer inside this unit, there is a laundry room in the building for common use. An elementary charter school called Vincent Academy sits across the road on Union Street. Ralph Bunch High School is across the road on 19th St. but the entrance is on 18th Street.
