Have you seen the new centerpiece in Salt Lake City's skyline? Honestly, how could you miss it?
The Astra Tower—89 E. 200 South—was officially unveiled in May and has claimed its place as the tallest and most sustainable residential building in Utah. With 41 stories soaring over 450 feet, Astra Tower isn't just reshaping the city's skyline—it's redefining urban living with a focus on innovation, wellness and community.
Developed by Kensington Investment Company and designed by HKS, Astra Tower is making headlines for more than its height. It's a modern example of sustainability and creativity, paving the way for a greener and more connected future for Salt Lake City.
"Astra Tower is more than just a building—it's a milestone in Salt Lake City's evolution," said Shane Rensmon of Kensington Investment Company, which built the Astra off a design by HKS. "Our goal was to create a place that elevates urban living while contributing to the health, vitality and long-term sustainability of the city. This project reflects our deep belief in the transformative power of thoughtful development and long-term community investment."
As locals know, Salt Lake's mountain geography makes it prone to inversions and air pollution. Astra Tower takes this challenge head on by incorporating technology to improve air quality. The building features advanced, two-stage filtration systems, operable windows for natural ventilation and air quality sensors in every unit.
Astra takes its air-quality focus further with a community-first mentality. The crown lighting on the building will serve as a public air-quality indicator, changing colors to reflect real-time pollution levels. Through partnerships with Utah Clean Air (UCAIR) and programs promoting electric vehicles and bike sharing, Astra Tower hopes to use its prominent position to inspire sustainable habits citywide.
Astra Tower is designed to withstand seismic events, with an eye toward resilience and longevity. General contractor Jacobsen Construction led a team of 86 subcontractors, with up to 425 builders working onsite daily. During one building phase, the high-rise added one level every seven days.
In addition, Astra Tower boasts a 35% reduction in baseline water use, with its tenants projected to consume around 14 million gallons of potable water annually. This focus on reduced resource usage ensures the building contributes to both resident and environmental well-being. Astra Tower is also targeting LEED Gold certification, emphasizing Kensington's commitment to creating spaces that are both luxurious and eco-conscious.
But Astra Tower isn't just an architectural statement; it's a canvas for creativity. The building features Utah's largest mural, created by renowned artists Joseph Toney and Miles Toland. Spanning the western wall, this mural celebrates unity and the state's stunning natural landscapes while adding vibrancy to the cityscape.
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