Brandon Jensen has called Promenade at Irvine Spectrum apartments home for three years. As COO of Hawk & Co, his sister’s local interior design firm, Jensen appreciates the convenience and the unexpected sense of community he has found at Promenade.
What drew you to Promenade, and what keeps you there?
Initially, it was the convenience – my commute is just 10 minutes. But what’s kept me here is the community. After 16 years in L.A., where everything felt disconnected, I’ve built a solid friend group of about 40 people, all residents here. We’re always gathering for weekend barbecues, birthday celebrations or watching games together in the cafe. It’s different from any living situation I’ve had before.
Do you have a favorite amenity?
The pool area, hands down. It feels like a resort setup. I travel for work and have stayed at places like The Ritz-Carlton, but our pool holds its own compared to those spots. Friends who visit are always impressed. It’s become our main gathering spot, where I spend at least one day every weekend.
How do you maintain the community feeling year-round?
During winter, we just shift locations. The group moves to the cafe, where we’ll catch football games over beers, or we’ll do barbecues by the fire pits, even when it’s cold. The seasons change our spot, but not our routine.
You were the first tenant in your building?
I was the first resident in Building 8. Everything was so new and modern when I moved in. Within three weeks it was fully occupied, and that’s when the community dynamic really developed.
Do you have advice for anyone considering Promenade?
If you’re looking for good community, solid amenities and a central Orange County location, this fits the bill. I don’t plan to move – ever.
