Design approved for Hemisfair's new 10-story apartment, retail building in downtown SA
SAN ANTONIO — Hemisfair took a significant step forward with their newest project known as the Santa Rita.
Trube Corp. partnered with the Hemisfair Park Area Redevelopment Corporation to propose a 10-story residential apartment tower and three-story retail building. The designs were approved by the City of San Antonio's Historic and Design Review Commission on Wednesday.
"I am thrilled to be a part of the transformation happening at Hemisfair. The Santa Rita is not just an apartment building; it's a vibrant community that will enhance the urban fabric of downtown San Antonio," said John Trube, Trube Corp. founder. "This project represents our commitment to creating spaces that foster connection, support local businesses, and celebrate the rich history of this remarkable area. We believe the Santa Rita will be a vital addition to Hemisfair, bringing new life to the heart of the city."
The Santa Rita will be located on Market Street and will take up a little over two acres, featuring the residential tower which will house 304 apartment units and ground-level retail stores. Next to the tower will be a three-story retail building with two levels above street level and one level at river level that provides direct access to the River Walk, Civic Park and Market Street. It will also include a parking garage.
The design concepts were created by FitzGerald Associate Architects and plan to establish the project with a unique look that also respects the culture within the neighborhood. The buildings will have traditional layouts featuring elements like brick or stone with additions like awnings, canopies and arcades spread throughout.
The Santa Rita Apartments will be named after St. Rita of Cascia, a patron saint of impossible causes, known for her faith, resilience and dedication to community. "This namesake reflects the spirit of the Hemisfair redevelopment efforts—transforming what was once an underutilized area into a flourishing neighborhood that connects people, ideas, and experiences," Hemisfair officials said.
Hemisfair officials hope Santa Rita will help revitalize downtown San Antonio by increasing the area's population. The Hemisfair's Master Plan was adopted in 2012 and aims to turn the area into a popular urban district that entices residents and visitors alike.
"Hemisfair's mixed-use development is a pivotal step in restoring the neighborhood's density, as it once was before the 1968 World's Fair," said Andres Andujar, CEO of Hemisfair. "We've seen firsthand how combining residential living with vibrant parks like Yanaguana Garden can transform a community, and we expect Civic Park to do the same. Increasing downtown density strengthens the urban core by boosting local businesses, encouraging walkability, and making public spaces more vibrant and active. It also promotes sustainable development by helping San Antonio's city center become more resilient, dynamic, and economically strong."
