The project is the first to rise under the auspices of Montclair's Gateway Redevelopment Plan. Valley & Bloom will comprise two buildings, with a total of 258 apartments ranging from studio to two-bedroom layouts, and 25,500 square feet of retail space along with the office component. The complex will have 571 parking spaces.

“This is an exciting new development that is part of Montclair's vision for smart, inclusive development,” said Meisel. “Valley & Bloom is a live-work community in the midst of Montclair's vibrant downtown.”

Meisel said the office space would be ideal for a boutique company or tech start-up. With the first building under way, he said “This is an ideal time for a business seeking a custom build-out in a unique urban setting.”

LCOR and Pinnacle broke ground on the first building last November. The entire project is expected to be complete by spring 2015. The 23,650 square feet of office space available can be leased in its entirety or subdivided and customized for individual tenant needs.

Office tenants will have access to amenities that include a fitness center with showers and a separate room for dance or yoga, bike storage and a parking garage with a robotic stacking system. Residents at Valley & Bloom also have access to a resident lounge, gaming area, children's playroom and a four landscaped outdoor spaces, including two roof decks.

The building is designed for Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design certification and is to incorporate sustainable elements including Energy Star appliances, specially insulated windows and fixtures and appliances designed for water-use reduction, a rainnwater collection system and shuttle access to pubic transit.