Originally built as a warehouse in 1882, the site was almost entirely demolished with the exception of the historic brick facade. Re-built in 2004, 88 Townsend is home to 112 residences in the Historic South End District of the South Beach neighborhood. Notable features in the building include landscaped courtyards and a roof deck.

Home sizes at 88 Townsend start at about 500 square feet and range up to about 1,200 square feet. Homes are available in studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom plans.