Fresh architectural renderings have been unveiled for Casa 54, an ambitious 30-story residential development planned for 54 Jones Street in Jersey City's bustling Journal Square neighborhood. The 311-foot tower, designed by Emara Ghobrial Architects and developed by Kabir Manchanda of the Manchanda Group, will bring 190 rental apartments to the area when completed. The mixed-use project will occupy an L-shaped lot bordered by Sip Street to the north and Jones Street to the west.
The apartment building will offer diverse living options, featuring studio units through three-bedroom layouts, including an exclusive penthouse. In addition to residential space, the development will incorporate two complete floors dedicated to resident amenities and 780 square feet of ground-level retail space. The unit breakdown includes 64 studios, 108 one-bedroom apartments, 12 two-bedroom units, five three-bedroom residences, and one penthouse suite. Twenty-one units will be designated as affordable housing to serve the local community.
The latest renderings showcase the building's distinctive architectural design, which features a divided massing approach. The structure begins with a substantial multi-story podium that culminates in an eye-catching double-height cutout around the one-third mark, complete with glass railings forming a loggia terrace. Above this dramatic architectural element, the tower rises uninterrupted toward the sky. The facade combines floor-to-ceiling windows framed by a geometric grid of gray brick and beige paneling, creating a modern aesthetic that complements the urban environment.
Detailed views of the lower levels reveal thoughtful design elements including gray brickwork, sleek metal spandrels, and strategically placed windows with black metal vents. The main entrance will be highlighted by an extended canopy over a double-height lobby, while newly planted tree-lined sidewalks with decorative garden beds will enhance the streetscape around the property.
Residents will enjoy an impressive array of amenities beginning on the ninth floor, which will house a coworking lounge, library, and media room for entertainment and productivity. The tenth floor will feature a comprehensive fitness center, dedicated yoga and meditation space, and a spa with access to outdoor areas. The crown jewel of the amenity package will be a communal rooftop deck spanning nearly 1,000 square feet, complete with glass railings and partial coverage from an elegant pergola.
The rooftop space will include a plunge pool and offer residents spectacular panoramic views encompassing downtown Jersey City, the iconic New York City skyline, and New York Harbor. Additional renderings show the strategic positioning of the roof deck and adjacent bulkhead, which will display prominent signage featuring the property's name. The development will also accommodate cyclists with 97 dedicated bicycle parking spaces.
The Jersey City Planning Board granted unanimous approval for the Casa 54 project on September 23, marking a significant milestone in the development process. The location offers exceptional transit connectivity, with the Journal Square PATH station just a short walk north of the construction site, providing convenient access to Manhattan and other areas.
The development site currently sits vacant, ready for construction to begin on this transformative project. While Casa 54 represents a major addition to Journal Square's growing skyline, developers have not yet announced a specific construction timeline for the 190-unit residential tower.
