A local developer took bold chances in building a luxury multifamily property of the type not typically seen in El Paso, Texas.
The 225-unit Desert Commons at 2801 N. Zaragoza Road that opened last year in fast-growing east El Paso stands out as one of the only apartment properties in the Zaragoza corridor. An apartment property that wouldn't look out of place in cities like Austin, Dallas or San Antonio has such high-end features as a game room, electric vehicle charging station and a pet play area.
The judges were impressed by EPX Construction's upscale project and they expect it to attract more commercial and residential property investment to the area. The willingness of the developer that builds commercial and residential projects across the Southwest to risk building luxury apartments in the predominantly blue-collar city earned Desert Commons a 2024 CoStar Impact Award, as judged by real estate professionals familiar with the market.
About the Project: Humphreys & Partners Architects designed the project , which is managed by RPM. The property covers almost 200,000 square feet and includes 225 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments.
What the Judges Said: "The unique and modern architecture of Desert Commons was the ultimate deciding factor," wrote Laura Salome, managing director with SVN Fortune Real Estate. "This kind of bold risk to create such a modern look for apartments should be rewarded."
Scott Lynch, association executive for the El Paso Apartment Association, agreed that the development brings "a modern style of architecture not typical to El Paso."
"It's a luxury property that will help attract professionals to the city that value quality of life," Lynch added.
They Made it Happen: Business Development Manager Eduardo Villeda headed the project for EPX Construction Partners.
CoStar Market Manager Benjamin Freeman contributed.