IRVINE, CA -- Thomas P. Cox: Architects, Inc. (TCA) has been selected by Camden Development to design downtown Long Beach’s newest high-rise condominium tower. The project will be referred to as 150 Ocean Boulevard and is located on the corner of Ocean Boulevard and Pine Avenue.

Adjacent to the Pike at Rainbow Harbor retail complex, the blue-tinted glass and concrete 17-story tower will encompass 216 condominium homes ranging from approximately 700 to 2,000 square feet, according to associate Eric Olsen, AIA lead designer with the architectural firm. Camden Development estimates that construction on the new condo community is expected to begin in late 2005.

“This contemporary urban design will reflect both the influences of the local coastal resort environment and the existing urban architecture along Ocean Boulevard,” Olsen explained. “The city of Long Beach wanted a stylish high-rise tower that added some distinction to the city skyline and we are excited to be a part of the team that will be heading up that design process.”

150 Ocean Boulevard will include up to 12 luxury penthouses, a subterranean 3-story parking facility, 3,500 square feet of community space and an extensive pool deck that will be 85-feet above the ground level to maximize ocean views.

“My wife and I are residents of the city of Long Beach so this project took on a unique role for me as a lead designer,” said Olsen. “I am very familiar with the downtown area and it was important to me that TCA came to the table with a motif that would leave a lasting impression. 150 Ocean Boulevard will be a landmark resort community with incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastal environment. In fact, it’s designed so every home will see the ocean. It will be an extraordinary place to live.”

Recently, CNN published an article detailing the zip codes in the United States with the largest median five-year price increases. According to this article, downtown Long Beach boasted the second largest median five-year price increases in the nation. With nearly 3,500 residential units planned or under construction, the area looks to continue its booming development.

Located in the center of the growing downtown area, 150 Ocean Boulevard residents will not only be near the Pike at Rainbow Harbor retail complex, but they will also be within walking distance of the Long Beach Convention Center, the Performing Arts Center, the Aquarium of the Pacific and the eclectic urban lifestyle offered along Beach Boulevard and lower Pine Avenue. 150 Ocean Boulevard will be located directly in front of turn #8 at the annual Long Beach Grand Prix that brings thousands of racecar enthusiasts and corporate sponsors to downtown Long Beach each year.