700 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach – International Tower
- What year was the International Tower built?
- How many units are in 700 E Ocean?
- Where is the International Tower located in downtown Long Beach, CA?
- What’s included in the HOA?
- Are pets allowed?
- What kind of parking is available at 700 E Ocean?
- Why is the property called the International Tower?
- Who is the architect of the International Towers?
- What is the architectural style?
- Do all units have balconies?
- What other condos in Long Beach use modernist architecture?
- What kind of heating system is used in each unit?
- Can you watch the long beach grand prix from the International Tower?
- How much is the HOA?
- Is laundry available in each unit?
- Places to eat near 700 E Ocean
The International Tower in downtown Long Beach is one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. It’s likely you have seen this building before. It has been in both Hollywood blockbuster movies and TV.
What makes 700 E Ocean so unique?
For one this condo tower is round. It also stands at 295 feet in height and 32 stories. The design of the building accommodates 204 total condo units. It is so well designed that every unit has a balcony. Not all condo buildings in Long Beach have balconies. Not even all buildings located on Ocean Blvd have balconies for 100% of their units.
This tower, or “the round building” as local residents call it is most certainly a luxury building. There are condo towers in downtown Long Beach that have units that are more affordable such as the Cooper Arms. We mention this because it’s important to know that the building has features that you would expect in a luxury condo such as a pool, fitness center, and secured parking.
Even as a luxury building there are units in multiple configurations. Units range in the following configurations:
- 1 bedroom units
- 2 bedroom units
- 3 bedroom units
- 4 Penthouse units
It is quite rare to see the penthouse units come up for sale. With only 4 units they do not come up for sale very often. When you see one, have the budget for it, we recommend you act quickly.
Excluding the penthouses the units range in size from 880 sq ft to 1,260 sq ft. Units may have from 1-2 bathrooms depending on the unit.
Let’s look at some additional details of the International Tower and common questions that people have about this iconic building.
What year was the International Tower built?
It was originally built in 1965. It was not originally built as a condo tower. When it was first built this building was available to rent as apartments. The building was converted into condos in 1987.
There is a picture of the original build of the tower provided by the Long Beach Heritage from an issue in 2011. If you look at the picture you will notice the beautiful and historic Villa Riviera in the background as well as 600 E Ocean in the foreground.
How many units are in 700 E Ocean?
There are 204 units in the tower. Each unit has a balcony meaning you will have a spectacular ocean view, a view of downtown, or even a view of a historic building such as the Villa Riviera.
Where is the International Tower located in downtown Long Beach, CA?
It is located at 700 East Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802. To put this in the context of ocean blvd and what’s available in Long Beach it is sandwiched between two buildings. On one side of the building is the luxury apartment rental of 600 E Ocean. On the other side just across shoreline drive is the historic Villa Riviera.
What’s included in the HOA?
When you live in a luxury condo like the International Tower you want your HOA to deliver. You will not be disappointed in what is included in the HOA.
- Pool. The pool at 700 E Ocean isn’t just a tiny pool. This is a 9 foot deep pool that is also heated. It also happens to have walls that protect you from the wind.
- Community Grill. While relaxing at the pool you can enjoy cooking out on the grill.
- Weight Room. Many weight rooms in condo buildings exist in a room with a bunch of mirrors. The weight room at the International overlooks the pool. You get a wonderful view while enjoying one of the treadmills, stationary bikes, or the free weights in the room.
- Community Room. The community room includes a pool table, full kitchen, and even a large flat screen TV to relax.
- Package lockers. Enjoy the security of having your packages delivered safely into lockers instead of worrying about porch pirates.
- Secured Parking. A great benefit of living at the International is not having to find parking offsite. You get to have your own secured parking. Depending on your unit you may have 1 parking spot all the way up to 3 parking spots.
- Onsite team. There is a full time staff of a General manager, maintenance staff, and an assistant.
- 24/7 365 Security. There is video monitoring for all critical areas. This gives all residents a sense of safety knowing they have folks watching out for them.
- Outdoor & Landscape Maintenance. The outside of the building and grounds are maintained by the onsite team. Keeping everything looking top notch is part of the HOA dues.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are allowed however there are some limitations. Owners are limited to 1 cat or 1 dog. There is a strict weight limit of 25 lb weight on each animal. Pes must be carried in public areas and owners must use the service elevator when bringing their animals outside of their units.
What kind of parking is available at 700 E Ocean?
The building provides secured parking for its residents. Each unit has parking associated with the unit. The number of parking spots could be one or three parking spots depending on whether you have a one bedroom or three bedroom unit.
The parking garage is a 4 story underground parking facility. It is a secured parking area. The great part is that it is monitored by security cameras.
When you have guests visit you there are guest parking spots available. They are available on a first come first serve basis. We would caution your guests that parking on Ocean Blvd can be very difficult. It would be better if your guests looked for parking on nearby shoreline drive where there are lots with paid parking opportunities.
Why is the property called the international tower ?
During the 1960’s there was a building boom in Long Beach, CA. This was a building that was originally built as apartments. Because of this it is likely the developers wanted to give the building a name that made it standout. They wanted it to stand out not just in Long Beach but throughout the world. The developer, who hailed from Bel Aire and was a successful Los Angeles developer, as well as the developer behind 600 E Ocean likely had an influence on the name of the building.
Researching the time of the build, the developers background, and the original target market it is likely 3 themes contributed to the name of the tower.
- Architectural Influence. The design of the International Tower reflects the International Style of architecture, which emphasizes simplicity, clean lines, and the use of glass and steel. This style gained prominence in the mid-20th century and was characterized by its modernist aesthetic and functional form. The naming could be an homage to this architectural movement.
- International Recognition. The building’s design and prominence in Long Beach may have aimed to position it as a landmark with a global appeal. By naming it “International,” the developers likely intended to convey a sense of modernity and global sophistication, attracting a wide range of residents and businesses.
- Historical Context. When the tower was completed in 1966, there was a trend to name significant buildings with aspirational or globally appealing names. Including “International” in the naming of the tower would have been in line with buildings of the day having a global appeal.
Who is the architect of the International Towers?
On large buildings, such as the Towers, there are multiple architects. There is always a primary architect that is the main architect for the building
In the case of the towers the main architect is Carl B Troesdsson. He is known for his innovative approach to high-rise residential design. We believe it’s important to know a little bit more about the architect behind this building.
Early Life and Education
He was born in the early 20th century and developed an interest in architecture at a young age. He pursued his formal education in architecture at Columbia University, where he was influenced by the modernist movements that were gaining traction globally. He gained a deep appreciation for the principles of the International Style, which emphasized functionality, simplicity, and the use of modern materials like glass and steel.
Architectural Career
Troesdsson’s career began in the post-World War II era, a time of significant growth and change in American architecture. He started working with various architectural firms, where he gained experience in different types of projects, from commercial buildings to residential developments. His early work reflected a keen interest in the integration of modernist principles with practical living spaces.
Continued Relevance
Troesdsson’s emphasis on blending functionality with modernist aesthetics has influenced subsequent generations of architects. The principles he championed—such as maximizing natural light, creating functional living spaces, and employing innovative structural solutions—remain relevant in contemporary architectural practice.
Personal Life and Philosophy
Carl B. Troesdsson was known not only for his professional achievements but also for his dedication to the principles of modernism in his personal life. He believed that architecture should enhance the quality of life for its inhabitants, a philosophy that guided his work throughout his career. His commitment to this ideal is evident in the thoughtful and human-centered design of the Tower in Long Beach
Mechanical Engineer Architect of the building
T.Y. Lin (1912-2003) was a pioneering structural engineer known for his contributions to the field of civil engineering, particularly in the development of pre-stressed concrete. He was born in China and later moved to the United States, where he became a professor at the University of California, Berkeley. Lin’s work had a significant impact on both academic and practical aspects of structural engineering.
His firm was the mechanical engineering architect for the building.
What is the architectural style of the international tower?
The style of building that you desire to live may be an important factor. The good news is that in downtown Long Beach you have a choice of different styles of buildings. This comes as a result of Long Beach’s rich history there are many different styles to choose from. The style of the tower is considered a modern architectural style.
Its design is characterized by sleek lines, a cylindrical shape, and a contemporary aesthetic that was popular during the mid-20th century when it was built. The building’s exterior includes glass curtain walls, which allow for abundant natural light and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The modern architectural style emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and the use of innovative materials and construction techniques. The International Tower’s design reflects these principles, with its clean lines and minimalist approach.
It represents a classic example of modernist architecture, which continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal and forward-thinking design.
Innovative Features:
One of the standout features of the International Tower is its unique floor plan. The cylindrical design meant that each apartment had a curved layout, which was both innovative and challenging from a design and engineering perspective. The architects worked closely with structural engineers to ensure the building’s stability and to address the complexities of constructing a round high-rise.
This innovative feature is partly why all units have such ample balcony space with terrific view of either the city or the ocean.
Legacy and Influence
The design was truly ahead of its time and forward looking. It pushed the boundaries of conventional design. We have been in nearly every condo building in Long Beach and we would say the building is unique and very unconventional. Even new buildings, such as Aqua, don’t have such forward looking features. The building remains a landmark in Long Beach, celebrated for its architectural significance and its contribution to the city’s skyline.
Impact on Long Beach
The International Tower has become a symbol of mid-century modern architecture in Long Beach. Its distinctive silhouette and modern design continue to attract residents and visitors alike, contributing to the city’s cultural and architectural heritage.
Design Philosophy
Troesdsson’s design for the Tower incorporated a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. The use of floor-to-ceiling glass panels not only provided unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean and the cityscape but also allowed for abundant natural light, creating a sense of openness and continuity between the interior and exterior spaces.
Do all units have balconies?
Let’s face it when you have a condo near the ocean having a balcony allows you more opportunities to enjoy the southern California weather. In downtown Long Beach not all condo buildings have balconies for all units. As an example, the Cooper Arms, not all units have balconies.
As a result of the design at the International Towers all units have private balconies. This makes it one of the most unique buildings in all of Long Beach. With the balconies at the tower what you will discover is they have different types of views:
- A full view of the ocean
- Partial view of the ocean and partial city view
- A view of the city
What these views mean is some have a view where they can see miles of ocean. Others see the Villa Riviera. These balconies vary in size and many residents use them as a wonderful outdoor living area. One of the most frequent questions is about the size of the balconies.
The size of the balconies can vary depending on the specific unit. Balcony sizes typically range from around 50 square feet to over 200 square feet for larger units.
Smaller units may have more compact balconies suitable for seating or a small table, while larger units may have more expansive balconies that can accommodate additional outdoor furniture or even outdoor dining areas.
The exact dimensions of the balconies would depend on the floor plan and layout of each individual unit within the building.
What other condos in Long Beach use modernist architecture?
In addition to the International Tower, several other condominium buildings in Long Beach, California, showcase modernist architectural influences. Here are a few examples:
1. The Ocean Club: Located along Ocean Boulevard, The Ocean Club features modernist design elements with its sleek lines, glass exteriors, and contemporary styling. It offers luxury condominium living with stunning ocean views.
2. The Pacific: Situated in downtown Long Beach, The Pacific is known for its modernist architectural design, characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and floor-to-ceiling windows. It offers upscale urban living with a variety of amenities.
3. The West Ocean Towers: This waterfront condominium complex in downtown Long Beach boasts modernist architecture with its striking glass facade, clean lines, and contemporary design elements. It offers luxury living with panoramic views of the ocean and city skyline.
These are just a few examples of condominium buildings in Long Beach that incorporate modernist architectural elements into their design. Each building offers its own unique take on modernist aesthetics while providing residents with luxury living spaces and convenient amenities.
What kind of heating system is used in each unit?
The weather in Southern California is quite mild. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t times where it will be chilly in the morning or at night. The type of heat used in the tower is Electric Radiant heat which was prevalent at the time of the build.
Can you watch the long beach grand prix from the International Tower?
For Southern California race fans there is probably no bigger event than the Long Beach Grand Prix. This event takes place annually and takes over the streets of Long Beach, CA. Part of the route of the race is on Shoreline drive. As a result there are condo buildings downtown that are able to have watch parties. Watch parties where you aren’t watching a TV, you are watching the race take place from a balcony of a condo.
If you have a condo with an ocean view in the International Tower it’s likely you will have a view of the race. The view, whether full or partial, will depend on the location of the condo in the Tower.
Even if you decide you don’t want to watch from the Tower you will be extremely close to all of the action and festivities of the event. There will be event location and grandstands within .5 to 1 mile of the tower.
How much is the HOA?
The HOA fee, Home Owner Association, is the monthly amount an owner pays for the upkeep and maintenance of common areas and common use facilities. This fee does not cover any maintenance of items located within the units themselves.
The HOA, 700 E Ocean, depends on the unit configuration and size of the unit. As of the writing of this the ranges of $884 to $946+ depending on the unit. When you are looking at what the HOA should be for a unit we recommend talking to the HOA directly at https://www.itoalb.org/home/ .
Is laundry available in each unit?
No one is going to like going up and down an elevator to do their laundry when they live in a luxury condo tower. Washer and dryer availability in individual units depends on the specific configuration unit. We have seen washer and dryer units in both 1 bedroom units and the larger 2 bedroom units.
We haven’t been able to confirm if 100% of the units have their own inside laundry.
Places to Eat Near 700 E Ocean
Who doesn’t love a good place to eat? Whether you want a nice dinner out or just don’t feel like cooking, dining in downtown Long Beach offers options. Here are several options we would invite you to try on your own.
- Modica’s Deli – at 455 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802 – is located .2 miles away in the ground floor of the Cooper Arms. Enjoy a fine Italian deli that is just a quick jaunt down Ocean Blvd.
- Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse – For those who are looking for fine dining and a wonderful steak you can find it .5 miles down Ocean Blvd.
Finding the condo you want at 700 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, Ca 90802 is easy using our Free Hot List or our FREE Long Beach MLS.