Twohy Building
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4.5(6)yelp
Historic Building
Overview
The Twohy Building is a deeply historic, beautifully preserved architectural landmark anchoring the prominent intersection of First and Antonio streets in downtown San Jose. Constructed originally in 1910, this prominent four-story structure represents a premier example of classical commercial brick and terracotta architecture from the city's early twentieth-century boom town era. Listed proudly on the National Register of Historic Places, its fully restored facade and ground-floor arched glass bays house trendy urban cafes and executive boutique spaces.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration0.5 hours
Best TimeMid-afternoon (2 PM - 4 PM) when sunlight hits the iconic vintage red brick facades and marble trim for premium street photography contrast.
Getting ThereLocated at 210 S First St downtown. Right along the transit spine; park at Pavilion Garage and walk one short block.
Travel Tips
- Private boundary warning: The landmark functions entirely as private residential/office space. There are zero public galleries, museums, or observation decks inside. Do not attempt tailgating through secure resident doors.
- Best Street Photo Spot: Avoid shooting directly from underneath on narrow footpaths. Cross First Street to the opposite diagonal sidewalk; use a mid-telephoto lens to frame the sweeping transit tracks and brick relief columns together.
- Break-in prevention rule: First Street metered spaces are notorious window smash hot zones due to high nightlife concentration. Clear your cabin of phone mounts, loose chargers, and accessories before locking up.
Reviews
Positive
- Prisintly maintained 1910 Neoclassical brickwork. Vintage arched street entry arches recall old San Francisco pavement vibes.
Heads up
- Upper levels are fully private apartments/corporate suites; public tourist entry upstairs is 100% blocked. Restricted to exterior viewing.