Colliers recently facilitated the sale of the iconic Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) Building in downtown Oakland for $22.5 million. The building, located at 1515 Webster Street and dating back to 1915, is a five-story property with 67,420 square feet of space. It was designed by renowned Northern California architect Julia Morgan and is one of her first YWCA designs out of a total of 17.
The seller, Douglas Abrams from GZP Highbridge Equity Partners – who also owns other notable buildings such as Tribune Tower and Financial Center Building – was represented by SVP Benjamin Harrison and VP Will Cliff from Colliers. The buyer is an existing tenant who runs a charter school on the premises. With over 66 residential units within the building, these will now be made available to teachers in need.
“We are thrilled to have played a role in this transaction that honors both the rich history and original purpose behind this building,” said Harrison. “The seller’s efforts in navigating through complex bond offerings were crucial in making this perfect match possible.”
