This 8,500 square foot interior renovation occupies the top two floors of a San Francisco building. The design employs the themes of spatial sequence, community and openness.

A spatial sequence in which the spectacular view is gradually revealed to the visitor, beginning in the dark, low elevator lobby and moving through a patterned glass "veil" culminating with the panoramic city views.

A sense of community, which is central to the client's culture. To express this, the spaces surround a central reception court that serves as a visitor waiting area and once a week is used as a venue for social functions.

An open environment where all levels staff have access to management. Critical details express this management philosophy: as placing the Partner’s offices at the end of the primary aisleways and detailing the large doors to become part of the wall when open. The result is a blurring of the distinction between public space and private office.

Firm of record is Herbert Lewis Kruse Blunck where Paul Mankins was Principal-in-Charge
Photography by Farshid Assassi / Assassi Productions

awards

Honor Award, 2003
Iowa Commerce/American Institute of Architects - Iowa Chapter

Honorable Mention, 2001
American Institute of Architects - Central States Region

Best of the Bay-Inside, 2000
American Institute of Architects - San Francisco/San Francisco Chronicle

Honor Award, 1999
American Institute of Architects - Iowa Chapter

publications

Iowa Commerce, June/July 2003
Iowa Architect, 03:243
Iowa Architect, 02:239
San Francisco Chronicle Sunday Magazine, February 18 2001
Architectural Record, May 2001
Iowa Architect, 00:232