Building History

The Meritian Apartment Building was described in the American Journal of Building Design, in its 02/1966 issue: "Michel A. Marx, AIA, Oakland, has designed a 17-story apartment building, named the Meritian, which is scheduled for completio in the summer of 1966. The new Meritian will be on the shores of Lake Merritt at 1555 Oak Street., just north of the Scottish Rite Temple. Architect Marx pointed out that in order to provide apartments with views of both Lake Merritt and the Bay, a completely new design concept was developed for the Meritian which provides split-level town houses in the new high-rise apartment building. Rentals in the 81 unit structure range from $300 to $1000 for the penthouses per month. The town house apartments of the new Meritian actually have the living area, kitchen, living room and dining room of a different level from the sleeping area.This unique treatment offers the occupant many aesthetic advantages in decorating and furniture arrangment, besides the practical advantages of completely separating the living and sleeping areas--making them quieter and more private. The entrance will feature a brick-paced carriage way highlighted by a fountain. Doorman service with attendant parking and a private party room for the tenants' special entertaining needs are provided. Builders of the Mertitian are the Merritt Building & Construction Co. and Singleton Corporation, a joint venture. Toshi Ogawa is the Structural Engineer." (See "On the Boards, American Journal of Building Design, vol. 2, no. 3, 02/1966, pp.25-26.)

PCAD id: 25349