SOUTH SALT LAKE, Utah — Marking a new chapter for South Salt Lake’s emerging Downtown District, Abstract Development formally launched One Burton, a visionary, mixed-use development during its grand opening celebration and ribbon cutting earlier this month. Blending Mid-Century Modern design with hotel-style amenities, the project sets a new standard for urban living in the Salt Lake Valley with a unique approach to artful living. One Burton is a bold addition to South Salt Lake, blending timeless design with smart planning to create a striking, high-performing building that fully leverages local zoning. More than just a place to live, One Burton was designed to attract residents drawn to creativity, design, outdoor lifestyle and community. It plays a key role in redefining the city as the Salt Lake Valley’s blossoming “Creative Hub,” and signals its evolution into a vibrant place to live, work, and play.

Of the grand opening event, Abstract Development Principal Jason Algaze said, “It meant a great deal to celebrate this milestone with our partners, neighbors, colleagues, and friends who helped bring this grand vision to life. One Burton represents more than just a new building; it reflects the power of thoughtful design, strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to taking real action to transform South Salt Lake for the future.”

Pioneering Growth in South Salt Lake

As the first major development in the Downtown District, One Burton has shaped the city’s approach to zoning, infrastructure, and design. The collaborative project establishes a precedent for future community-centered growth.

“One Burton represents a significant milestone for South Salt Lake, marking our commitment to elevating the quality of life for our residents and enhancing our downtown area,” said Mayor Cherie Wood who addressed the crown during the ribbon cutting ceremony. “This development not only provides much-needed housing and retail space but also embodies our vision for a more connected, walkable, and sustainable community.”

A Stylish Urban Destination

Located on a 1.24-acre through-block site at Burton Avenue and Main Street, the $50 million, eight-story building includes 180 rental residences across 24 smart floorplans, ranging from studios to two-bedroom rental units. Thoughtfully designed interiors optimize space and natural light, with private balconies or patios offering mountain views.

The development features double-height, ground-floor retail space, structured parking, and a dramatic porte-cochere entrance inspired by New York’s famed Kutcher’s Resort in the Catskills to create a welcoming, resort-style streetscape.

“From the moment you see the structure—or step inside—you can tell I’m a true admirer of the golden era of architecture, from Richard Neutra to Charles and Ray Eames,” said Algaze. “I drew from Mid-Century Modern icons to bring a design to Utah that’s both unique and timeless. The bold geometric lines contrast beautifully with the rugged backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains, amplifying the natural surroundings.”

Art, Amenities, and Mountain Views

One Burton adds to South Salt Lake’s creative spirit with art at every turn. Inside, a private gallery anchors the experience, while outside, a new four-panel butterfly mural by renowned French artist Mantra connects Main Street to the rear facade—celebrating native Utah species and elevating the neighborhood’s public art. One Burton offers carefully curated, luxury amenities that foster connection:

  • Private building art gallery leading to a courtyard with mountain views
  • Rooftop dining and entertainment lounge with panoramic views
  • Oversized hot tub, cabana room, and outdoor lounge areas
  • Game room
  • Co-working spaces on the mezzanine
  • Fully-equipped, glass-walled fitness center with 360-degree views
  • Pet spa, dog park, and secure bike storage
  • Grand porte-cochere entrance highlights resort-style living and enhances Burton Avenue’s streetscape
  • Double-height, Mid-Century Modern lobby with rideshare waiting zone
  • Expansive parking garage for residents and retail guests
  • The Millcreek Bike Trail passes adjacent to the building, providing easy access to trails, TRAX, and major freeways.

“Our goal was to create a design that is both iconic and inviting,” said Mihnea Dobre, Principal at Architectural Nexus. “One Burton’s Mid-Century Modern aesthetic and thoughtful urban integration make it a true landmark for the city.”

Overcoming Challenges, Delivering Innovation for a People-Centered Project

Bringing One Burton to life required overcoming a variety of design and infrastructure hurdles. From navigating new zoning regulations to upgrading sewage and utility infrastructure, the project team worked closely with city officials and neighboring projects to ensure sustainable solutions. Unique attributes of the One Burton site challenged the development team’s vision to create a striking design complete with undulating edges.

“One Burton represents the type of people-centered growth that is so vital to preserving the extraordinary quality of life that Salt Lake Valley residents enjoy,” said Gary Ellis, President and CEO of Jacobsen Construction. “It adds an interconnectedness that benefits the whole community. It’s exciting to contemplate the East Streetcar Corridor’s future, with One Burton at the heart of it.”

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About ABSTRACT Development Group

Founded in 2020 by Jason Algaze, Abstract Development Group is a full-service development company that spans the Northeast, Southeast and Mountain West. As an affiliate of the Bronstein family, now in its third generation, Abstract specializes in ground-up development, redevelopment, and the creation of real estate assets that are made to last for generations. With a billion dollar-plus, long-term portfolio of mixed-use and residential assets in the New York area, ADG has formed a platform that can execute its unique approach to each component of the entire development life cycle, from land use, acquisitions and assemblages, to design that is unseen in each location it builds in, to construction management as well as to asset and property management. ADG also has the benefit of being able to leverage Bronstein as its parent company to provide a strong balance sheet and extensive network to ensure project completion. One Burton is Abstract Development’s first project in Utah, with several more in its current pipeline and a target of several thousand units over the next few years. For more info, visit www.abstractdg.com.

About Architectural Nexus

​​Architectural Nexus (Arch Nexus) is a multi-disciplinary architectural design firm with offices in Salt Lake City and Sacramento, California. The firm serves a diverse range of markets, including mixed-use, healthcare, education, civic, laboratory, library, and commercial projects, delivering thoughtful, high-performance spaces that reflect the needs of clients and communities.

As a 100 percent employee-owned company, Arch Nexus fosters a culture of accountability, collaboration, and shared success. This structure empowers team members at all levels to take personal ownership of outcomes and strengthens the firm’s long-term commitment to excellence. With an integrated approach to design, sustainability, and client service, Architectural Nexus strives to shape resilient, meaningful environments throughout the Western United States. For more info, visit www.archnexus.com.

About Jacobsen Construction

Founded in 1922 by Soren Jacobsen in Salt Lake City, Jacobsen Construction is a 100% employee-owned, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) company. With more than 800 employee-owners, Jacobsen is consistently ranked as one of the top contractors in America, and as one of the nation’s Top 100 Green Contractors. For more info, visit www.jacobsenconstruction.com.