Toll Brothers, Inc. (NYSE: TOL) (www.TollBrothers.com), the nation’s leading builder of luxury homes, through its Toll Brothers Apartment Living® rental subsidiary, and partner EJF Capital, today announced the groundbreaking of Rafferty, a brand-new multifamily and mixed-use development located in Santa Ana, CA. The 223,569-square-foot mixed-use project marks the second Toll Brothers Apartment Living community in Orange County including the recently completed Cameo, in Orange, CA. The developer has partnered with MVE + Partners, an Orange County-based and award-winning architecture, planning, interior and urban design firm on the project which is expected to begin leasing in 2023.

Located in the heart of downtown Santa Ana at the prestigious intersection of 4th Street and Main Street, Rafferty is steps away from a lively restaurant and bar scene, unique shopping opportunities, and the arts district. The project is positioned less than a half-mile from city, county, and federal office buildings and only one mile from I-5 Freeway access. Currently under construction and adjacent to the site is the OC Streetcar, which will provide future residents a convenient public transportation option. 

“Rafferty’s groundbreaking marks a significant moment for Santa Ana as the first luxury multifamily community to be built here in decades,” said Charles Elliott, president, Toll Brothers Apartment Living. “We are excited to be a part of this vibrant neighborhood and contributing to the growing demand for a city center.” 

Rafferty is situated on the historic site of the First American Title Company headquarters, formerly known as the Orange County Title Company. Toll Brothers Apartment Living is working closely with Preserve Orange County and the Santa Ana Historical Preservation Society to maintain parts of the original exterior of the Title Company building in the mixed-use design. Led by MVE + Partners, the project will draw architecture and design inspiration from neighboring structures and the surrounding area. 

“We are thrilled to be working alongside MVE + Partners, the city, and historical groups, on this iconic project,” said Michael McCann, regional director of acquisition and development, Toll Brothers Apartment Living. “With their help, we will be preserving parts of the 1930s art deco façade that wraps the First American Title building facing Main Street and parts of Fifth Street. 

We look forward to delivering another successful project in the market offering a unique and vibrant living experience in Orange County.”

“We’re honored to partner with Toll Brothers Apartment Living to introduce a walkable and lively mixed-use community that will infuse energy into Orange County’s urban core and bring much-anticipated housing options for young professionals working in the area,” said Pieter Berger, senior associate partner, MVE + Partners. “Rafferty will complement the existing sophisticated grid that makes up the urban fabric and social hub of the downtown Santa Ana community.”

Rafferty will be comprised of two adjacent mid-rise structures with 218-apartment homes offering studio, one-, and two-bedroom floor plan styles. Each home is curated with modern design elements and conveniences including stainless steel appliances, wood-style flooring in living areas, quartz countertops, plush carpet in bedrooms, keyless entry, and smart thermostats. 

Rafferty’s name and design are inspired by the artistic background and icons of the neighborhood. Drawing on the creative history, the community will feature a full-service amenity package including an expansive fitness center, resident clubroom, coworking spaces, resort-style pool, rooftop deck, community-wide WiFi and more. 

The exclusive rooftop deck will overlook the neighboring 4th Street Market and feature views of the Newport Beach coast and Catalina Island. On the ground floor, Rafferty will be home to more than 12,300 square feet of retail space providing an opportunity for additional restaurants, shops, and pedestrian activation. The community will include both market-rate and affordable housing options. 

Toll Brothers Apartment Living oversees the development, management, and marketing of Rafferty. Additional project partners include MJS Landscape Architects and interior architecture and planning firm, H. Hendy Associates. For more information about Toll Brothers Apartment Living, please visit website: TollBrothersApartmentLiving.com.