Have you ever seen a building that seems to twist and turn before your very eyes? Here at 280 Spear Street stands MIRA, a stunning 39-story residential skyscraper. MIRA, originally known as Folsom Bay Tower, is a striking addition to the San Francisco skyline. Completed in 2020, MIRA stands at an impressive 422 feet tall. It was developed by Tishman Speyer and designed by the renowned architect Jeanne Gang of Studio Gang Architects.
The building’s unique spiraling design gives it a dynamic, twisting appearance. This distinctive feature isn’t just for show. The twisting design results in unique layouts and bay windows for each of the 392 condominiums within MIRA. Imagine waking up to a slightly different view every morning, thanks to the building’s gentle spiral. This innovative design also earned MIRA recognition as one of the ten most important buildings of the 2010s.
MIRA offers a luxurious living experience. Residents enjoy a wide range of amenities. These include a rooftop deck with breathtaking city views, a private dining room, a club lounge perfect for socializing, a state-of-the-art gym, a children’s playroom, and even a dog-washing station. For those with electric vehicles, charging stations are available. Secure bike parking is also provided. The building even boasts over 10,000 square feet of retail space at street level.
The story of MIRA begins in 2014 when the rippled tower design was first unveiled. The building is situated on land that was once part of the Embarcadero Freeway. This parcel of land was upzoned, allowing the tower to reach its impressive height, in exchange for the developer increasing the amount of affordable housing included in the project. Construction on MIRA commenced in 2017. By late 2018, pre-sales for the first batch of condos began, with prices ranging from under $1 million to $3 million for the upper units. The building topped out in 2019, its white facade gleaming against the San Francisco sky. While initial sales were brisk, later sales proved more challenging. By 2024, many condos remained unsold, some selling below their listing price. This shift was attributed to changes in the area’s desirability following the COVID-19 pandemic. MIRA stands as a testament to modern architecture and urban living. Its twisting form and luxurious amenities make it a unique landmark in the San Francisco skyline.