The neighborhood stretching diagonally from the center of downtown San Jose to Backesto Park—a section of the 95112 Zip—features some choice old apartment houses scattered among single-family units. Most of these are two- and three-stories, and some have received recent renovations. Among these older landmarks are a number of newer complexes—some of which bring a nice contemporary style to the neighborhood.

The 95112 isn’t particularly trendy, but it’s a nice, leafy neighborhood within walking distance of downtown. And some of these newer places make it affordable.

At 400 N. First St., a particularly sweet upstairs unit in the Ryland Mews complex is available for $324,999. It’s well laid out, with an open living area with vaulted ceilings and a cute breakfast nook. The galley kitchen has stainless steel appliances and a travertine-and-glass tile back-splash.

For nature lovers: The south-facing windows are nicely situated, pulling in views of the downtown skyline and the mountains beyond.

Around the corner, at 415 N. Second St., there’s a cute little one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit. It’s very nicely designed with an open living area. The kitchen is smallish, but opens into the living/dining room via a wide doorway and a half-wall/bar. The layout makes the most of 850 square feet of space.

The grounds are nicely landscaped and feature a swimming pool. The price was recently reduced by $5,000—it’s going for $340,000.

Smack downtown, on San Fernando Street between Third and Fourth, Paseo Villas is a 10-year old five-story brick complex that, from the outside,  has the look-and-feel of an older modernist structure. Inside, it’s well-stocked with modern amenities.

There are two units available at the moment. A ground-floor two-bedroom/two-bath at $480,000 with a small patio, and a third-floor with a view of the common-area for $449,000. Designed for active urban living, the property also features a pool and spa, workout room and clubhouse.

Further out, a brand-new complex at 793 Modern Ice Dr. has been selling briskly, but still has units available.

A lot of attention has been paid to design details. There’s quality tile work in the entry and master-bath, and pretty laminate hardwood flooring in the living and dining area, as well as granite countertops in the kitchen, and marble stone in both bathrooms.

A plus: a cool address. Modern Ice Drive. If that appeals, this may be the place, and the neighborhood.