Gift-giving is truly an art form during the Holiday Season. It’s easy to feel restless trying to find the right gift for each special person in your life, and gift-shopping can get quite expensive, too.
Homemade gift-giving is one of the best ways to show friends and family that you truly value them. Regardless of your experience level, hand-making gifts for a loved one will be a wonderful display of intention and affection! In the spirit of the holiday season, frugality and sustainability here is The Skylyne's DIY Holiday Gift Guide of 2022. Enjoy!
Holiday Treat Mug
The Sorry Girls uber-popular DIY channel comes out with annual DIY holiday gift ideas that we wholeheartedly recommend! Our personal favorite from this year's guide is their Polymer Clay Floral Frog. Flowers AND a sweet handmade reusable gift, what's more to love?
Step 1: Thrift unique holiday mugs from local second-hand shops (and please wash them when you get home)!
Step 2: Make some yummy holiday snacks like peppermint bark, marshmallow snowmen or classic holiday cookies.
Step 3: Combine the two with some tinsel or confetti!
The Sorry Girls uber-popular DIY channel comes out with annual DIY holiday gift ideas that we wholeheartedly recommend! Our personal favorite from this year's guide is their Polymer Clay Floral Frog. Flowers AND a sweet handmade reusable gift, what's more to love?
Have some old coasters laying around? Upcycled coasters are a great way to merge a love for art with sustainable gifting practices. Watch this video by Our Upcycled Life to get an idea of how it's done. While this example is a bit more in-depth, simply sanding and repainting wood coasters is a great way to revamp something old into a wonderful gift for someone you love.
This special home-made candle is for the mood-setters and scent lovers in your life. Plus, for an at-home craft, it’s surprisingly easy. You can make this project even more sustainable by reusing old candle jars, cups or bowls. Watch Tina Le show us all the steps needed to make the perfect gift that sets the scene. In this video, Tina Le also teaches us how to decorate an affordable planter pot that makes the perfect DIY gift for any plant-lover. This is such a great idea and even more DIY planter pot styles can be seen below!
Having plants in your apartment can really switch up the interior decor vibe, as plants bring tons of life into any space. A DIY upcycled plant basket is a great way to revamp any old plant pots we may have laying around, and bring some spark to our friends’ lives. Honestly, this project can be a completely cost-free holiday option if you choose to give a friend a cutting from your overgrown Pothos, Spider plant, or Monstera. And with some creativity, these upcycled Plant Baskets by SennaDiy can even be used for small storage.
Holiday Shopping in the Neighborhood
If you don’t have time to DIY your gift this season, check out a few of Temescal’s amazing specialty gift shops.
It’s Your Move game store has extra-special sets of popular games like DnD, and even hosts private events
Preserved Goods is probably the most sustainable home goods store in Oakland.
The Vintage Rug Shop has so many unique luxury and seasonal home decor pieces perfect for gifting.
The holiday season is the perfect time to get creative and start exploring new places, crafts or hobbies. There can be so much pressure on each of us to give the perfect gift, but the truth is anything from the heart will have an impact. After all the hectic holiday hustle and bustle, the magic that shows on loved ones’ faces when they receive the perfect holiday surprise makes the effort well worth it. Happy Holidays Skylyne community, we hope it’s magical.
There’s no better way to do gift-giving season than by supporting local businesses and shopping small. #SmallBusinessesSaturday is November 26th, and we hope to see our Skylyne community showing some love to our Temescal district. Choosing the right gift can be hard – there are so many options to choose from. We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite local shops and a few gift recommendations from their inventories!
Esqueleto
We’ve mentioned before how much we LOVE Esqueleto. This unique jewelry shop sources hand-crafted jewelry from local artisans and each piece is selectively curated to match the shop’s eclectic bohemian style. Along with their sustainable sourcing of materials and manufacturing, Esqueleto has a community-giving initiative built into their business model, truly showing us the power of giving back.
If you haven’t stopped by their adorable boutique yet, the holiday season is the perfect time to stop by. You might want to pick up a few of the gems from their holiday gift-giving guide when you get there.
For nearly two decades, Sagrada Sacred Arts has graced the Temescal District with its presence. Sagrada means sacred in Spanish, and like its name - you will find beautiful and unique spiritual items within this shop.
Respecting the beliefs of many different faiths, their inventory is catered to people from many different backgrounds and faiths. The shop says it best themselves, “For those with the eyes to see, they know that the angels - and this portal we call "Sagrada" (sacred, spanish) - invites us to another world, another dimension.”
The shop carries unique items like The Lantern Oracle deck, made with the ordained words of Angelina Mirabito, PhD and stunning depictive illustration by Yuly Alejo.
We all know, and love, an obsessed plant parent. If you’re looking for a beautiful new piece of life for your own apartment or a friends’, Crimson Horticultural Rarities has the perfect selection of items for you.
Whether it’s a trendy new pick like the Monstera Deliciosa (pictured above), or a more unique pick like a mounted Hoya plant, this shop has such a great selection of greenery and home decor. The shop also specializes in floral arrangements, centerpieces, and stylized accessories for your apartment.
Also, check out Crimson’s events calendar for monthly classes, pop-ups, and celebrations at their shop!
We hope that you find some beautiful gifts for friends and family this Small Business Saturday. Happy holiday shopping, Skylyne! It’s always a good time to give back.
It's the perfect time to plan a weekend trip to the pumpkin patch! Speer Family Farm's Alameda Point Pumpkin Patch is known for their range of family-friendly activities like Halloween-themed jump houses, giant inflatable slides, and a live petting zoo. This location is open from 9am to 9pm every weekend and is just a 15-minute drive from The Skylyne.
You might just have to take a trip over the Bay Bridge to experience the magic of Clancy’s Pumpkin Patch in San Francisco. Hop on the family-sized hayride or decorate a few of their variety of fall pumpkins and gourds. If you can't make it this season that's okay, Clancy's Christmas Trees will be open for wintertime, too.
Dia de Los Muertos
Dia de Los Muertos is a traditional Mexican holiday, celebrated on November 1st and 2nd. The history of this special holiday is rooted in honoring loved ones who have passed and acknowledging the power they have in our lives today. Oakland has quite a few celebrations of this magical holiday for us to enjoy.
This November, Eastside Arts Alliance is presentingQue Vivan Los Muertos: EastSide Community Procession and Art Festival. This month-long festival, being held in the historic Fruitvale district, is an Oakland community celebration to honor the history and culture of Dia de Los Muertos. Bring your family to the kick-off Community Procession on November 2nd from 4 - 8 pm with face painting, food vendors, music, and more! For more fun, stop by for Que Vivan Los Muertos November 5-6th at 2310 East 12th St.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into the cultural traditions of Dia de Los Muertos, our neighbor East Bay Creative Reuse Depot is hosting a workshop for the creation of Dia de Los Muertos mini shrines! Stop by October 26th at 7pm to join in.
Halloween
Halloween is the best time of year for those of us with a sweet tooth or a love for funky outfits. Nothing beats the childhood memories of stuffing our faces with all the candy we could come by, until our parents mysteriously 'misplaced' our buckets. There are quite a few ways to celebrate this classic holiday - here are just a few.
Trick or Treat: Temescal Edition! We are so lucky to have the Temescal Business District host our neighborhood's very own Halloween festival! This Sunday, October 30th, bring the whole crew to Temescal Trick or Treat, right off Telegraph Ave!
An Oakland tradition, the Rockridge Halloween celebration has finally returned! Take a trip down College and Alcatraz for the annual Halloween Parade, on October 30th from 11am - 4pm at 5366 College Ave.
Get lost in The Haunted Garden at the Camron-Stanford House. We’ve all passed by this mysterious Victorian-style house on the west side of Lake Merritt; If you ever wondered what’s lurking behind its doors, now is the time to find out. Their main celebration will be held on October 30th from 11am- 3pm at 1418 Lakeside Drive. The museum will also be displaying a special October exhibit Ghoulish and Ghastly: Victorian Monsters in Popular Culture.
We hope our Skylyne community has a spooky, sweet, and safe October holiday season!
P.S. - The leasing office wouldn’t mind a treat or two!
Spooky Celebrations at the Skylyne
This month, the leaves are changing, the weather is getting cooler, and bright orange pumpkins have started appearing on the porches of our wonderful Temescal neighbors. The mystical month of October has a powerful history in its precedent, with a variety of cultures internationally celebrating Halloween, Dia De Los Muertos, and other festivities during this time. Traditionally, many Indigenous cultures prepared a feast honoring their loved ones and commemorating the end of harvest season.
Although our celebrations are a little different now, The Skylyne loves to observe this wonderful October season. We’ve compiled a few of our favorite local Halloween, Dia De Los Muertos, and Fall activities for our residents to enjoy.
The colder seasons are all about staying in, cozying up, and finding new passions. We are lucky to live in a community with many in-house amenities to help build new habits, hobbies, and daily routines. We have compiled a list of some of our favorite ways to use the amazing luxury spaces in our Temescal paradise, and we’ve included a few neighborhood gems worth a weekend trip too!
Fitness
Staying active is such an essential part of leading a balanced life. As many of us have transitioned into fully remote work environments, it can be hard to find the time to get out to the gym or a park. Thankfully, The Skylyne has many options for those hoping to incorporate some active time into their weekly routine.
Yoga on the Sun Terrace | A morning Sun Salutation on the sun terrace is a great way to start any productive day! Also, if you’re feeling adventurous, check out the local fitness locations listed below.
While the sun is still shining, swim a few laps in our Sky Splash deck pool!
Our Fitness Club and flex Fitness Studio are the perfect spaces to get in the workout mood or build your fall routine. A wide array of weight and cardio machines give the space versatility, and the – hour access offers room for scheduling flexibility.
Social Time
Spending time with the people closest to you is also key to living a happy and healthy life. There are so many unique spaces at The Skylyne and in our neighborhood to gather with good friends.
Have a Bonfire on the Sky Terrace Deck.
Invite friends over for a poker night in the Social Room.
Book the Screening Room for a romantic date night or fun movie night with friends!
Grab your book-lover for a romantic night at North Light Bar.
Temescal is one of Oakland’s most lively and fun neighborhoods! Here are a few local hidden gems that are perfect for a relaxing spa day, massage, or workout.
Local Spa Locations
Royal Touch Wellness is the spot to go for body work in the Temescal District. Offering a range of specializations from Cupping, to hot stone, to CBD medical massages, there is nothing this wellness spa cannot do! So make sure to book at their newest Temescal location!
Claremont Foot Spa is the commuter's dream! Ease the pains of those long BART and biking days with a quick booking here.
Local Fitness Locations
Mukunda Studio offers in-person and virtual yoga courses, studio space rentals, and more!
Work Out Spot is a woman-owned community fitness space that offers a variety of classes and personal training.
Living your best life starts with taking care of your mind and body. It can be hard to find time to rejuvenate and relax with all of the distractions that keep us wrapped up in our daily lives. We hope these tips will help our amazing Skylyne community truly invest in a season of #selfcare.
Fall in Love with Self-Care at the Skylyne
The colder seasons are all about staying in, cozying up, and finding new passions.
The modern layout of our Skylyne apartments offers the perfect backdrop for experimenting with various interior decorating styles. Whether you just moved in or have been with us for a while, there is always room to switch up your decoration style. To inspire our residents, we’ve compiled a list of a few interior design styles, tips, and trends that we think will elevate your space in the bright and open floor plans at The Skylyne at Temescal.
Contemporary
Modern, Simple, and Sleek. The Contemporary interior design style pairs perfectly with our modern-luxury Skylyne apartments. Contemporary layouts often use a neutral color scheme and an array of soft tones spliced with color-blocking pieces to play into a minimalist look. A great example of purposeful color blocking would be the yellow accent pillow pictured above, juxtaposed by the white and gray monochromatic background that opens up the space.
Contemporary style centers striking lines and shapes. Substituting the classic recliner for a more sleek sitting option like this faux leather recliner is a great way to play into a modern design profile without sacrificing comfort.
Check out this helpful video to transform a plain wall into a contemporary piece of art.
Bohemian
The Bohemian interior design style is all about freedom. This style combines new and antique furniture pieces, colorful patterns and prints, and elements of a “well-traveled” aesthetic.
This design style is often seen as a personal expression, where the individual brings their life experiences into a space. Less rigid and more free-roaming, a Bohemian interior design style will often have an amalgamation of colors, textures, and artistic objects. Using plantlife as a calming, earth-centric way to balance the space is also common in the style, along with warm tones like brown, yellow, and green.
Popular decorations like macrame accent pieces perfectly play into the Bohemian style.
Learn how to make your own DIY macrame plant holder here:
Eclectic
When you think of Eclectic interior style, think of vibrancy. Eclectic style is all about bright colors, eye-catching decorations, and an array of unique furniture pieces. In this design style, you’re turning what would otherwise be ordinary furniture into functional works of art.
A hot pink couch and a bright yellow coffee table? Eclecticism is about bending the rules, and some would even say distorting reality.
Learn more about the history of Eclecticism from this great article on MasterClass.com. Here’s an excerpt that provides a peek into the history of the style: “Eclectic style today originated in Paris during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. One of the city's main architecture and design schools, the École des Beaux-Arts, was renowned for its decorative arts program where students from all over the world came together in a place where they could collaborate and invent completely new styles.”
Still confused about this spunky design style? Learn more from an expert at the video below.
At the Skylyne, we love seeing the different ways our residents design their gorgeous luxury apartments. We love it so much that we’ve created an interior design contest for our amazing Skylyne community! During the month of September, we will give away one $100 gift card to the resident with the best interior design inspiration in their Skylyne apartment.
To enter the contest, post a picture of your Skylyne apartment style on Instagram, then tag @skylyne510 and add the #BozzutoLiving hashtag in the comments.
Happy posting! We can’t wait to see all the gorgeous nooks and crannies of our Skylyne community.
Interior Design at The Skylyne
The modern layout of our Skylyne apartments offers the perfect backdrop for experimenting with various interior decorating styles.
Summertime is the season to get outdoors! There’s nothing like the feeling of being one with nature, moving your body, and seeing some spectacular views. The East Bay is a special place for many reasons, and our proximity to both the ocean and a vast array of natural wildlife leaves much to be explored on your next hike.
Hiking Trails in The East Bay
Snuggled deeply in the Oakland Hills is a magical collection of redwood-laden routes that travel deep into the California forest. This city-owned, protected, and maintained area is known for its amazing views overlooking our wonderful city. Joaquin Miller Park and Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park are two of the largest landmark areas within this forest expanse.
French Trail, Miguel Vieira, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park
This park spans a total of 1,833 acres across the Oakland Hills. In 2019, the park was renamed after former Mills College president, Dr. Aurelia Henry Reinhardt. Some of the most popular trails within this area are the Stream Mill and French Trail Loop and the Dunn Graham and West Ridge Trail Loop. Both of these hikes harbor gorgeous, towering redwoods and are known to have some of the best views of the East Bay.
People from the East Bay know that ‘Joaquin Miller’ is the place to go for a day outside. The park has large areas for bbqs and picnics, and offers sturdy park seating under a canopy of gorgeous, ancient redwoods. Joaquin Miller also has a ton of trails, including the very popular Sequoia Bayview Trail.
If you’re interested in learning more about some of the trails and perks of Joaquin Miller Park, check out the website here!
Sequoia Bayview Trailhead, Tom Holub, CC BY-NC 2.0, via Flickr
Hiking Trails Along the Water
MLK Regional Shoreline
Wanna see the best sunset of your life? Take a trip down to Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline. This Bay Area marsh is perfect for outdoor and ocean lovers alike! The shoreline park area has a play structure for children and a paved walking path. One of the Shoreline’s biggest attractions is its art installation, Duplex Cone by Roger Berry, “that traces the sun's summer and winter solstice paths through the sky.”
On the border of Albany and North Berkeley lies eclectic community creations, just steps away from the waters of The Bay. Albany Beach Trailhead is a unique and fun trail for those looking for something a little different.
The trail has one entry point and two paths - one that leads directly to the top of the hill and one that scales the shoreline, overlooking the gorgeous aquatic landscape.
When you reach the top of the hill, using either trail, you’re met with a vast collection of unique civilian art pieces. From antique teapot structures to shrines of loved ones passed, Albany Bulb Trailhead is a piece of history and the perfect hike to take in that fresh ocean air.
Find out more about this awesome beach trail through this PDF from Berkeley Paths!
Albany Bulb On the Rocks, Britt Pierro, CC-BY 2.0
Whichever trail you choose this season, the stunning wildlife of the East Bay will gladly greet you. Please always remember to be considerate and conscientious of other hikers, your animals, and waste disposal while on the trails.
Happy Trekking, from The Skylyne at Temescal!
Hiking Trails in Oakland
Summertime is the season to get outdoors! There’s nothing like the feeling of being one with nature, moving your body, and seeing some spectacular views.
At The Skylyne at Temescal, we believe there’s always room for expansion when creating the perfect home. Last summer, we made an important transition by welcoming a new management team from Bozzuto, the #1-rated property management company in the nation. A company that steadfastly believes in always doing the right thing and leading with integrity, Bozzuto is known for its culture of kindness and inclusive policies as much as it is for providing extraordinary experiences and top-notch service for their residents. Celebrating 33 years of creating sanctuary for their residents, Bozzuto currently manages 85,000 apartments and 2.5 million square feet of retail space.
Luckily for The Skylyne, two incredible Bozzuto managers joined us here in our North Oakland paradise - Tyler and Jesse. This duo has already made great strides to bring their Bozzuto expertise to our community, showing the West Coast what it truly means to create an exceptional living environment. We can already see that this professional staff is a reflection of their company’s steadfast commitment to its values.
Here’s a little bit more about our dynamic Bozzuto duo!
JESSE, Assistant General Manager
1.What is your favorite thing to do in Oakland?
I love exploring new food and beverage spots in the area, as it’s always a good feeling to keep things local. I also love to plant shop at Crimson Horticultural Rarities. They have some awesome finds.
2.Where is your favorite restaurant in Temescal, and what do you order?
Drakes Dealership. I love their sour beers and pizzas.
3.What is your favorite part of working with the Bozzuto team?
No matter where we come from, we are all family. We all share similar passions and thrive on the diversity and inclusion that Bozzuto provides to us. One of the best things about Bozzuto is how unique and creative we all are and how well we work as a team.
4.What's your favorite amenity at the Skylyne?
Woof Deck! It’s the perfect place to bark and bond with your furry friend. I love spending time at the Woof Deck with my pup, Rico, and enjoy meeting all of the other dog parents.
5.What is one fun fact about The Skylyne that future residents should know about?
We have one of the best rooftops and views in the Bay!
6.What are some fun things new residents can do to connect with the community?
Attend our monthly resident events. It’s the perfect place to meet your neighbors and gain some new friends along the way.
TYLER, General Manager
1.What is your favorite thing to do in Oakland?
Try all of the must-eat restaurants in the area. It’s a great place to be a foodie!
2.Where is your favorite restaurant in Temescal, and what do you order?
Hawking Bird. Pork Belly Bowl or the Tai chili chicken sandwich.
3.What is your favorite part of working with the Bozzuto team?
The culture and growth potential. Bozzuto is a company for the people; our company wouldn’t be what it is without its own unique individuals. We foster a culture that allows everyone to be themselves and embrace that. With that being said, every single property is run and operated like a small business, so you get the chance to learn the bigger picture of how a community is run and operated. Because of this, once you’ve got the business down or your roll, you’re ready to move on to the next step! Generally, this next step wouldn’t happen until the person above you moves on where you currently are but because we have 280+ properties across the Nation you are always a part of the strategy. This means people are getting moved around everywhere so even though the property is a small business we’re apart of a huge company that always has needs coast to coast.
4.What is your favorite amenity at the Skylyne?
The gym - it’s a great escape to let your mind go and work on hitting the reset button!
5.What is one fun fact about The Skylyne that future residents should know about?
We have a coffee machine in the office for the residents to come and visit with us while they start their day or just need a midday pick-me-up pep talk from us.
6.What are some fun things new residents can do to connect with the community?
Make sure you use the elevator to quickly mingle and introduce yourself without the pressure of a long conversation.
The Skylyne at Temescal welcomes the Bozzuto management team with the utmost excitement, and we feel so lucky to be one of the first recipients of Bozzuto’s award-winning service in the Northern California market. Next time you catch some air on our outdoor patio or take a break in our cozy lobby, don’t forget to stop by the management office to say hello!
Introduction to the Bozzuto Team
Change Breeds Innovation
At The Skylyne at Temescal, we believe there’s always room for expansion when creating the perfect home.
Committing to sustainability is more than a personal interest – it’s a way of navigating your community and shifting your lifestyle. The transition into sustainable practices can take time, and it's a step-by-step process. Here are a few ways to fit earth-conscious practices into your daily life to help keep the planet healthy for ourselves and future generations.
Shop local, shop sustainable
We are so lucky to live in the Bay Area, one of the leading sustainable cities in the United States. In our region, local and state-wide government mandates have committed to actively creating an earth-conscious legislative infrastructure, like the Plan Bay Area 2040. Many community members have already committed to these conscious practices, making sustainable choices readily accessible in our local economy.
Our beautiful city is filled with curated vintage stores, creative hobby and reuse stores, and weekly farmers’ markets that bring fresh produce right to you.
In our Temescal neighborhood, shopping local and sustainable can become a treasure hunt when you search for the perfect recycled craft supplies at East Bay Depot of Creative Reuse (EBDCR). This funky creative shop has been open since 1979, dreamed to life by two Oakland teachers with the vision to make art supplies accessible to all. The store’s mission is to “divert waste materials from landfills by collecting and redistributing discarded goods as low-cost supplies for art, education, and social services.” The next time you need art supplies for your new favorite hobby, make the EBDCR your first stop.
Shopping local in California also means supporting our many regional farms and agriculturalists. Our wonderful Temescal neighborhood holds a weekly farmers’ market every Sunday from 9 AM - 1 PM. Urban Village Farmers Market Association hosts our Sunday Market at the North Oakland DMV, located at 5300 Claremont Ave.
Old Oakland Weekly Farmers Market, sourced through Creative Commons from VisitOakland.org
Ethical and Eccentric Wearables
Thanks to a resurgence of old fashion trends and popular sustainable clothing movements by younger generations, shopping for curated sustainable fashion is easier (and more fun) than ever. Take a walk through our quaint neighborhood, and you’ll find an array of sustainable and vintage shops like Down at Lulu’s shop and salon. Or, find your new favorite luxury spring accessory within the locally hand-crafted jewelry at Esqueleto.
A big part of sustainable living is shifting one’s focus away from unnecessary consumption. It can be easy to go to your favorite chain store to pick up new things every week, but it can be just as fun to spend your retail therapy time re-creating items you already own.
Even though creative reuse is tons of fun, you don’t have to be a craft wizard to bring sustainability into your household routine. Simply reusing and repairing household appliances and items is a great way to limit your consumption! This can be as simple as making an effort to bring reusable bags to the grocery store, switching out your paper towels for cloth napkins, or taking your favorite jeans to a tailor for their second life.
Opting to use sustainable transportation is one of the most impactful ways to take earth-conscientious action. Carbon dioxide emissions from human activities make up over 80% of the total cause of global temperature increase, and 15-20% of that majority is caused by personal transportation. Using alternative methods of transportation like riding your bike, walking, or using public transportation regularly can be an effective way to contribute to a healthier planet and influence the people in your life to move towards the same shared values.
Outro:
There are many easy and enjoyable ways to implement sustainable practices into your daily routine. Whether it's through repurposing everyday household objects or taking BART to your next weekend activity, each action you take can help to improve our shared earthly experience. When you shift your perspective to one of sustainability and reuse, it brings a new value to the things we often take for granted. Here at The Skylyne at Temescal, we have so much to be grateful for, and our big blue planet is at the top of our list.
Sustainable Living at The Skylyne
Committing to sustainability is more than a personal interest – it’s a way of navigating your community and shifting your lifestyle.
“We feel that our projects, in a kind of serendipitous way, choose us.”
About 1 AM Projects and 1 AM SF:
How long have you been working together?
“Daniel Pan and Antoine Marnata founded the Bay Area powerhouse for murals and custom artwork, 1AM Projects, in 2021. However, both have been working side-by-side and running the parent company 1AM SF for more than a decade. 1AM SF’s roots go back to the mid-2000s as an art gallery-creative space that provided monthly art exhibitions, murals, and art experiences.”
Why did you start the 1AM SF and 1 AM Projects?
“ The 1 AM SF and 1 AM Projects mission individually and collectively has been and continues to connect our Bay Area community of artists, ideas, building owners, and partners through art, murals, and color to collaboratively transform the visual landscape of the San Francisco Bay Area.”
About the Artists:
Where are you all from?
“We have all found our way home to the great San Francisco Bay Area by way of many states and countries and are all now deeply rooted and based here for the long haul. The diversity of our artists makes us a visionary team as we all bring extensive experience to the group. For the Skylyne Oakland project, we activated our 1AM Projects Co-Founder and Artist, Antoine Marnata, along with Artists Gaelen Smith, Adam Hale, and Colt Platt.”
Why did you choose mural painting as your art?
“Mural painting is such a dynamic and thriving creative outlet for us as artists and [gives us] a way for us to share our love of a city and community by bringing it to life through movement and color. We see it as a gift to the community. We love working with and in different neighborhoods and creating public art alongside and for each community. The process of connecting with the diverse culture and background of the local people and learning about the history of various neighborhoods is exciting and ultimately drives and transforms the direction of the murals.”
About the Project:
What inspired this piece?
“The idea behind this piece was to create a mural very unique to the East Bay. We wanted to show the most iconic places but also capture the diversity, peace, and unity mindset of Oakland culture, history, and people. “
Why did you choose this project?
“We feel that our projects, in a kind of serendipitous way, choose us. We did a previous project at the Embarcadero and naturally embraced the Skylyne Oakland Project much the same way; fluidly, organically, and with passion for the space and community it lives in.”
Can you share a little about your process for designing and painting a mural?
“For the Skylyne Oakland project, we were asked to focus the mural on the bottom windows of the Skylyne ground floor. We immediately thought that it would look visually interesting to make some elements of the design stick out of the window frames.
We began making a list of our favorite Oakland landmarks and places. After collaboratively selecting the most unique ones and placing them next to each other, we thought it would be fun to create letters and write « Oakland » using some of those landmarks.
The Bozzuto team sent us their visual identity guidelines and their color palette. We really liked their brand color scheme and choices and thought it would work really well with our design. We ultimately used this palette as a reference for the colors of the entire mural project. Our goal was to stay in this color range as much as possible while creating a cohesive and unique mural.
We enjoyed painting in this neighborhood and working with the Skylyne Oakland staff. It energizes us when we are out on a mural site working and connecting with the residents and people passing by. Their feedback means a lot to us. It was such a great experience!”
About the Neighborhood:
What other murals have you painted in this area?
“Our team painted a mural for Kapor Center on Broadway, which was also a unique experience as we painted portraits of some of the students of the center, bringing real life to the project. We’re currently working on a design for a new community mural in the Mandela Parkway area. Stay tuned!”
What's your favorite place to eat in Temescal?
“ How can anyone have any one favorite place to eat in the flavorful community of Oakland? If we had to choose, we would eat our way through every eatery from Telegraph Avenue to MacArthur Blvd. to 51st Street.”
Serendipity and spontaneity converged to create something magical for us here at The Skylyne at Temescal this spring. A beautiful homage to our city is now sitting on the face of our building, letting everyone know that we will always and forever love The Town. So next time you make your way to our front entrance, take a moment to enjoy our beautiful new building mural by 1 AM SF.
Together We Rise: Interview with 1AM SF
A new mural has made its way to the Skylyne – a piece that pulls you into history, geography, and culture all at once. Like taking a drive through Oakland while staying in one place, the Skylyne’s new mural by 1AM SF uses visual mediums to tell the story of our city’s famous past and present. A new mural has made its way to the Skylyne – a piece that pulls you into history, geography, and culture all at once. Like taking a drive through Oakland while staying in one place, the Skylyne’s new mural by 1AM SF uses visual mediums to tell the story of our city’s famous past and present. We took the liberty to interview 1 AM SF and their visionaries for this piece to understand their artistic inspiration.
Celebrating Black History & Its Rich Culture in Oakland
The African American Museum and Library
Oakland’s African American Museum and Library is a monument of Black American history. After years of accruing Black oral histories, artifacts, and literature, the creators Marcella and Jesse Ford, Ruth and Lasartemay, E. Harold Mason, Morrie Turner, and Madison Harvey Jr., chose to integrate their works. On July 2, 1965, the East Bay Negro Historical Society (EBNHS) began.
This collection was the first of its kind in the Bay Area, and within a decade, it was adopted into the Oakland city library system. In 1994, the organization merged with the City of Oakland and rebranded itself with the name it's now known by, the African American Museum and Library at Oakland (AAMLO).
This incredible artifact library is located at 659 14th Street, Oakland, CA. Take a visit and learn about the many faces, voices, and thought leaders that make up the vibrant Black culture and activism Oakland is known for.
Blk Girls Green House
Whether you're on the hunt for a trendy living room Monstera or a new succulent for the kitchen window, Blk Girls Green House has got your apartment's decorating needs covered. Blk Girls
Green House in West Oakland has mastered the practice of space-keeping, and has brought its passion for horticulture and home decor to the public for our consumer pleasure.
This innovative business was established just over a year ago, by Oakland natives Kalkidan Gebreyohannes and J’Maica Roxanne. The duo noticed the attention people were putting into their homes amid the pandemic, and wanted to create a space where their community could purchase lively greenery, curated home goods, and locally produced apparel.
As Black women, Blk Girls Green House’s founders are committed to practicing a culturally responsive, community-based business model. The two have made a point to focus their efforts on “…collaborating with fellow Black-owned businesses and [inspiring] conscious, local shopping and gathering,” the website states.
It’s never too late (or too early) to bring some new life into your space; in the words of Gebreyohannes and Roxanne, “It's a beautiful time to grow.”
Souley Vegan
A vegan Soul Food restaurant almost sounds too good to be true; but this Black History Month, fantasy and reality are one and the same.
Souley Vegan is a Louisiana-Creole style restaurant based out of Oakland, California. This delectable vegan eatery has everything from fried tofu served atop a bowl of grits to New Orleans style gumbo for its visitors.
Oakland resident, Tamearra Dawson, envisioned the creation of this restaurant years before it was founded in 2007. Within a decade her business expanded to four locations, including restaurants in Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
“I wanted to create a place that welcomes everyone to come and enjoy an experience that takes them away from the day to day stresses of life... This is not a trend for me, [this is] what I do, and this is how I live,” said Dawson.
If you’re in the mood for a guilt-free, Southern-style treat, take a visit to Souley Vegan’s Oakland location on 301 Broadway, Oakland, CA. Check out Dawson’s recent appearance on the Food Network’s hit show Beat Bobby Flay, where she brings her bright vision to a national stage.
Marcus Books
A world of Black innovation is just a couple blocks away from life here at The Skylyne. Shining vibrantly on 3900 Martin L King Jr Way, Marcus Books sits powerfully in its history. This iconic bookstore was founded by Dr. Raye and Julian Richardson in 1960, named after Black historical icon and movement leader Marcus Garvey.
This Black-owned bookstore prides itself on being a place where both established and self-published Black writers can bring their creations to life. Its walls are covered with cutting-edge authors from all over the world, and the shop has hosted legendary talents like Toni Morrison, Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou, Sister Souljah, and Nikki Giovanni. Marcus Books is a beacon of Black Bay Area history and is worth the visit any time of year.
Black Joy Parade
Oakland has always shown up for Black excellence, happiness, and creation. The newly founded Black Joy Parade (BJP) is a reflection of these indoctrinated values. Last Sunday, February 27th, marked the Black Joy Parade’s 5th annual iteration.
This ‘hyper-positive’ parade was created for Oakland’s Black residents and allies to come together in unity and celebration of the city’s past, present, and future. The founder of BJP, Elisha Greenwell, said she felt inspired to create a festival in celebration of Oakland’s Black community.
“I moved back to Oakland and [it] felt different. It felt like there wasn’t a ton of shine on the Black community that’s so important to its foundation and its culture. [I] decided that we should have a celebration. We should do something that elevated all the local businesses and the artists, and all the people that continue to make Oakland what it is…I think that Black Joy is contagious,” Greenwell expressed in an interview with ABC 7 news in February 2019.
This year’s festival was packed with incredible features like a traditional Healing Village, a Hennesey-sponsored drinking lounge area, and partnerships with local Black businesses for a series of Black Joy Brunches. If you are looking to stay up-to-date with this incredible organization, follow @BlackJoyParade on instagram and check out their website.
Take some time to celebrate the important legacies of your neighbors, family, and friends. We are so lucky to call a city with such a rich and diverse history – a vibrant community of artists, dreamers, and activists – home.
Together We Rise: Celebrating Black History & Its Rich Culture in Oakland
The City of Oakland has a long history of breathing life into Black movements, philanthropic efforts, and business ventures. At The Skylyne at Temescal, we believe in honoring this legacy and contributing to the health of the neighbors and community members that make this city so vibrant. This Black History Month, we’re highlighting five local Black businesses, events, and museums that we feel deserve a spotlight year round.
Upon entering the Social Room of The Skylyne at Temescal, you’ll likely be drawn to a subtle, yet stunning art piece composed of colorful blue and orange threads. The art piece, titled Slant, is the masterpiece of artists Jamien Pride and Chaz Powell. It is such an honor to host Pride and Powell’s first permanent installation at The Skylyne. It is because of Bay Area based artists like them that our mantra, ‘Together We Rise’ rings true. Read on to learn more about their inspiration behind the piece, along with their creative process.
The Skylyne: What’s the name of the piece you created for The Skylyne, and what inspired you to create it?
Pride & Powell: The concept of Slant was inspired by the room it occupies. During our initial walkthrough, we saw the space in which the art would be displayed—the energy from the towering concrete wall felt very heavy, cold, and lifeless. We wanted to create something that felt light and organic to bring a sense of balance; the art became a living and breathing addition to the space.
The Skylyne: Can you describe your piece for us?
Pride & Powell: [Made of] thread, wood, and steel, Slant represents the spectrum of Black expression and the benefit of perspective. What the viewer sees is dependent upon where they stand and how they interact with the piece. Slant cannot be fully appreciated until the viewer decides to change their perspective. In that decision, Slant’s complexities are shown through shifting gradients, organic and architectural angles, and interplay with light.
The Skylyne: What was the creative process for completing this piece?
Pride & Powell: The creative process for Slant was a paradoxical combination of rigid planning and flowing with our artistic intuition. After multiple sketches, painstaking spreadsheet calculations to determine the spread and blend of colors, and failed mock-ups erected in our living room, the final execution came down to trust in our vision, abilities, and teamwork.
Slant is our first, permanent art installation and something we hadn’t previously executed on this scale. It truly is an act of alchemy to start with an idea and see it fully realized.
The Skylyne: What’s the day-to-day reality of the artist scene in the Bay Area, including the opportunities and difficulties of selling, marketing, finances, production, and just getting work done?
Pride & Powell: We were just starting to get our footing as active visual artists in the Bay Area. But given that we’re still in a pandemic, we think the art scene is in a state of transition and adaptation to the restrictions on gathering. As artists, it’s been difficult to prioritize being productive as we cope with unprecedented levels of uncertainty, anxiety, and loss. We’re taking it day-by-day, while still trying to maintain some channel of creativity and expression at home.
The Skylyne: What Oakland restaurants, artists, and public spaces in the area inspire you?
Pride & Powell: Oakland-based artists we highly respect and follow are Hueman, Jen Garcia, Muzae Sesay, Lauren Lamboy, Lenworth McIntosh (Joonbug), and Paige Ricks. The most inspiring spaces in Oakland, other than Black-owned galleries, are the preserved areas that have not been drastically altered by gentrification and continue to encourage fellowship. Local events that celebrate Blackness like the Black Joy Parade and Oakland First Fridays are just a few examples of authentic Oakland community.
The Skylyne: How can our community support you?
Pride & Powell: Continuing to support all local Black artistry is more important and more impactful than supporting us individually. Oakland’s people are who make The Town [what it is]. And with all of the resources being allocated to new buildings and infrastructure, there’s a multitude of Black creatives in the Bay that deserve access to the same number of resources and opportunities for growth.
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Our truth is the idea we want to own in people’s minds in relation to our competition. It is not a tagline. It is our rallying cry that declares who we are and what we stand for.
Together we rise. Together we thrive.
The Skylyne at Temescal was designed to foster and support the local community. We have made major investments into the neighborhood for improved lighting, bike trails, and a new recreation center. Our structure was literally built by Oakland residents, and we're dedicating almost all of our retail space exclusively to local businesses and community-serving storefronts because we know that when Oakland thrives, we all thrive.
Together We Rise: Meet The Artists
Get to know more about the art piece, titled Slant, and the masterful artists Jamien Pride and Chaz Powell.
If you’ve visited the main lobby of The Skylyne at Temescal, then you’ve likely noticed a whimsical mural to the right.
In this month’s #TogetherWeRise post, we’re featuring local Oakland artists in our community. We interviewed the local, multidisciplinary artist behind the masterpiece, Lenworth “Joonbug” McIntosh, to get a better sense of the piece and how it ties into the history and culture of Oakland. Check out what he had to say about his artistic process, art in Oakland, and where he finds inspiration around the Bay Area.
The Skylyne: To start off, could you explain what you do?
Joonbug: I'm a multidisciplinary artist, working mainly in illustration, but I tend to add multiple mediums to those illustrations. I also use oil paint, whatever it is that needs to get the narrative across. I also shoot photography, mainly analog film photography. I currently live in Oakland, and am from Jamaica originally. My style kind of takes on an aesthetic from the 60s/70s Black Diaspora. I create a lot of funk and silhouettes now. I love colors, more of the harmonic style where all the colors need to spread out over the canvas and work well with each other. As well as line work. I like semi-bold lines. I love curves. I like when everything kind of flows into each other and has a very fluid feel, and it doesn't feel like it's disrupting the space. Kind of moving like water in a way. A lot of my characters that I chose for The Skylyne mural are the characters that I'm most prominently using, called The Birds. They stem from a lot of the imagery that I've seen over the course of my life. A lot of the feelings I've felt in the diaspora, just growing up in the Dancehall culture in Jamaica and coming here and seeing a lot of 50s, 60s, and 70s kind of vibe like Good Times or Ernie Barnes’ work. There are a lot of influences from the Black experience that I'm pulling from in my work.
Interviewer: What’s the name of the piece that you created for The Skylyne, and what inspired you to create it?
Joonbug: I honestly don't know that this piece has a name. I want it to convey a certain feeling that would transport you outside into the world of the surrounding area. I've been in Oakland since 2015, and I believe in walking around, especially with my camera. I sometimes feel like I tend to see the spots that aren't always in the limelight but are part of the fabric that makes Oakland...Oakland. This piece is like a photo walk in a way that feels like I'm just walking with my camera and painting what I see in the scene with the brush.
What I wanted to convey is someone walking in my shoes on a typical day in Temescal, or just Oakland in general. I chose the color and different things that had a way of tying in nature as well to capture the vibrancy of the scene and people's energies. I have a dog skateboarding and showing the freedom of being on a skateboard made sense to make that the character versus an actual person. Then you have this Black woman coming from the farmer's market, symbolizing this healthy, community vibe. We have someone holding up a plant, which ties into my collecting of plants. It's nice to have something that's growing slowly and changes over time, and you come to find out that you've also grown. There's a certain sense of relaxation with plants that I love to put in my work. You can also see the Golden Gate and Bay Bridge in the distance.
Interviewer: Nice, gotta love photo walks and plant parenting during quarantine. What was the creative process for completing this piece?
Joonbug: I think the only thing I stressed about had nothing to do with the creative process but more so gathering the supplies. I spent a day in a car running around trying to get the right materials. I finally found a spot in Berkeley that had the right canvas size, then I had to stretch it. So, my studio mates helped me stretch it and then I had to get the frame shipped from the Netherlands. So, it was just like a whole circus getting me to the point where I could actually paint on the surface. But once we got there, it worked from two drafts. The first draft was very loose, and the second draft has a bit more detail that would showcase what my idea was. Once I had that sketch down, [The Skylyne] approved it. Then I went to the canvas, and I started to freestyle.
Interviewer: Nice. Okay, last question. What Oakland restaurants, artists, or public spaces inspire you?
Joonbug: Okay, so there's a few places. Anula’s Cafe is this hidden gem on 14th Street and Franklin in downtown Oakland, and it's run by this Sri Lankan woman named Anula. She's a grandma. She’s very sweet and has this fusion of Caribbean and Sri Lankan food. Her food just makes you feel like a good home cooked meal. I love her food. I love going there. Then Kamdesh Afghan Cuisine on 14th and Webster. I had never had Afghani food until I moved here, and I tried it out for the first time here and just fell in love with it. It's one of those places where you just open the menu up and everything's good. There's also the Minto Jamaican Market at Broadway and 41st. I go there to get all my Jamaican food, groceries, and always like the Jamaican beef patties and chicken patties and everything that reminds me of home.
I also like the coffee shop scene. Oeste had a very good vibe. I like Coloso Coffee whenever they’re open. Farley's on occasion. Part 2 Gallery has a lot of good shows that are always happening. I do like going to Lake Merritt, and walking around there and Chinatown. My friend, Janell, owns Pietisserie, and I still love getting pies from her.
I love to go to The Hatch because it is a nice little bar, very chill.
Interviewer: Cool. Any last words before we close out?
Joonbug: I want to thank specifically Oakland. I used to live in [San Francisco] and that was the first place in the Bay Area where I lived. When I moved to Oakland, like almost instantly, I felt this certain sense of just belonging. I can't really describe exactly how it was, but as soon as I walked around Lake Merritt for the first time, I just felt like this certain breeze that made me feel seen, you know? I just want to thank Oakland for gracing me with that feeling. I've learned so much from being here about community and what it takes to work with others, to support others in all walks of life, to see the passion that people exude for one another and put art above all else.
-- Our truth is the idea we want to own in people’s minds in relation to our competition. It is not a tagline. It is our rallying cry that declares who we are and what we stand for.
Together we rise. Together we thrive.
The Skylyne at Temescal was designed to foster and support the local community. We've made major investments into the neighborhood for improved lighting, bike trails, and a new rec center (our structure was literally built by Oakland residents), and we're dedicating almost all of our retail space exclusively to local businesses and community-serving storefronts because we know that when Oakland thrives, we all thrive.
Together We Rise: An Interview with Joonbug Lenworth McIntosh
In this month’s #TogetherWeRise post, we’re featuring local Oakland artists in our community. We interviewed the local, multidisciplinary artist behind the masterpiece, Lenworth “Joonbug” McIntosh, to get a better sense of the piece and how it ties into the history and culture of Oakland. Check out what he had to say about his artistic process, art in Oakland, and where he finds inspiration around the Bay Area.
Stepping out the doors of The Skylyne at Temescal opens up a whole new culinary world outside of your brand new apartment in Oakland. From the spicy tastes at Bowl’d BBQ to the hearty bowls of ramen at Marufuku, the Temescal restaurant scene is still abuzz with a variety of cuisines that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
We’ve highlighted some of the top Oakland restaurants that our residents are raving about. Don’t worry, we’ve made sure these recommendations offer either takeout, delivery, or outdoor seating while following social distancing protocols to keep you and your family safe. Additionally, they are all within a short walk of The Skylyne.
Only a 10-minute walk away, you can guarantee that you’ll get your brunch on at Aunt Mary’s Cafe! Explore a plethora of Southern-style menu options, including their sweet Ambrosia pancakes or their Louisville Hotbrown Sandwich. Don’t forget to order a pie (or two) for the road!
Between the Bun: 4920 Telegraph Ave. Ste A | Mon - Sun | 11am-9pm
You haven’t had a lobster (or crab) roll quite like the one served at Between the Bun. This Oakland restaurant keeps it straight to the point with their menu items, and we are here for it! Take your pick between the lobster or crab rolls with soups, and quench your thirst with a refreshing soda when visiting this Temescal seafood spot.
You’ll experience nothing but flavor at this Korean barbeque restaurant. Start your meal with their veggie Jhap Chae or glazed potatoes. If you like spicy food, you’re in luck! Enjoy lunch specials like the Kimchi stew or fried rice, or spicy rice cakes to give you an extra kick of flavor.
It’s nothing but good vibes over at the FOB Kitchen. This woman-owned restaurant boasts of its solid Filipino food and tropical-inspired cocktails to embrace the culture. Sink your teeth into their crunchy, free-range fried chicken before indulging in one of their takeout cocktails like the Pina Negroni.
The wait is worth it at Marufuku Ramen, an authentic Hakata-style Tonkotsu ramen shop next in the lineup of must-go Temescal restaurants. The ramen broth, “a rich and milky, premium Tonkotsu broth cooked for over 20 hours to extract umami flavor,” is just one aspect that guests experience while dining here. And tell your vegan friends they’ll get to enjoy just as much taste with their special vegan menu option.
Expect nothing but world-class, farm-to-table dishes at this Italian eatery. Start off your meal with their Blue Heron Farms little gems salad, followed by your pick of wood-fired pizza options. And be sure to grab a tasty cocktail at their happy hour Wed-Sun from 4-5:30pm!
Have you tried any of these Oakland restaurants? What have been some of your favorite takeout or dine-in options lately? Let us know what you ordered on instagram, @skylyne510
Together We Rise: Great Bites Near The Skylyne at Temescal!
We’ve highlighted some of the top Oakland restaurants that our residents are raving about. Don’t worry, we’ve made sure these recommendations offer either takeout, delivery, or outdoor seating while following social distancing protocols to keep you and your family safe. Additionally, they are all within a short walk of The Skylyne.
These were the passionate words shared in 2015 by Timiza Joseph, an Oakland resident in anticipation of the construction of The Skylyne. Today, we’re excited to announce that the doors of The Skylyne at Temescal are officially open to anyone looking for apartments in Oakland!
Our apartments are nestled at the intersection of Oakland and Berkeley in Temescal, one of Oakland’s oldest and coolest neighborhoods. Built by local businesses, we strive to continue fostering a sense of unity with our local community. The Skylyne is a five-minute walk from the MacArthur BART, and a fifteen-minute walk from tons of local shops and exquisite restaurants, including Subrosa Coffee and Tea, Pizzaiolo, and Cholita Linda (to name a few).
As one of the tallest buildings in Temescal, you can see the beauty of Oakland from the best vantage point. It's jaw-dropping and majestic. Imagine coming home to a beautiful Oakland apartment, and unwinding from the day while enjoying expansive views from a 15th floor rooftop sky deck complete with a pool.
Our upscale amenities don’t stop there and include well curated lounge spaces and a fully equipped fitness club. Lastly, our Oakland apartments offer keyless entry, in-unit laundry appliances and a paw spa.
Living at The Skylyne will offer you a brand new metropolitan lifestyle at the heart of Oakland and Berkeley. Move-ins begin this month. Apply today to take advantage of up to 3 months free rent (limited time offer, restrictions apply).
You can stop by our Leasing Office daily between 10am to 5pm or contact us at 510-616-9814 to book your tour experience of our Oakland apartments today!
Together, we will rise.
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The Skylyne offers a metropolitan lifestyle humming with the unique energy, innovation and creativity of Oakland, built by the hearts and hands of Oakland itself. Offering studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes plus penthouses, your new home is in the vibrant and community-minded Temescal neighborhood. Spend days exploring Temescal Alley, the East Bay’s hippest street, or take the BART from MacArthur Station, into Downtown San Francisco in 16 minutes. When you're ready to relax, come home to stunning views and amazing resident amenities.
Together We Rise: Welcome to The Skylyne at Temescal!
Our apartments are nestled at the intersection of Oakland and Berkeley in Temescal, one of Oakland’s oldest and coolest neighborhoods. Built by local businesses, we strive to continue fostering a sense of unity with our local community.
