To maximize the usable space within this great historic building—which has short floor to floor heights—we gutted years of previous improvements to expose the building’s original steel-encased concrete (and in some cases brick) structure throughout each floor. This allowed for the character of the building to shine through as an important part of a dialogue with the new elements, creating a space that is respectful of its past as it looks to the future. We also used one of the original exit stairs as a vertical connection between all floors occupied by the client to encourage activity and interaction.

By densifying their workspace, we were able to provide over sixty unique collaboration spaces and meeting rooms in a variety of styles and sizes, as well as a large open dining area and game lounge that also acts as an all-hands space. Collaboration and meeting areas are organized around the central atrium to take advantage of natural daylight and ventilation, while providing views across the floors.

To celebrate our client’s spirit and San Francisco location, we developed a design and custom graphics inspired by the pioneering spirit of Northern California. Each of the four floors pay tribute to such trailblazers as the Pony Express, Alfred Hitchcock, gaming innovators such as Atari, and Star Trek (as any Trekkie knows, San Francisco is home to the Starfleet Academy).