Historic Warehouse

• About this project

  We completed an historic warehouse renovation that was once a printing facility in San Francisco’s Northeast Waterfront District.  The building was constructed in 1930 with a reinforced concrete frame.  Beautiful, natural light flows in from its large steel windows.  Significantly, the city of San Francisco has landmarked both the building exterior and the neighborhood.  They have made it a priority to preserve the historic character of the area.

  We collaborated with Susan Kisbye designs and Derry Casey Construction to update this historic building for modern office use.  We started by removing all the interior partition walls.  Following this, we removed the substandard lighting, as well as the poorly planned electrical and mechanical systems.  In doing so, we returned the building to a clean, open shell.

  The industrial quality of the building inspired us.  Large hip trusses support the roof.  This, fortunately, allows for large open spaces and eliminates the need for interior walls and columns.  We painted the exposed structural system white, which provides dramatic visual interest on its own.  From there, we designed our renovation to enhance the existing structure.  Our design both contrasts and blends with the original historic building.

  For instance, we added a steel, cantilevered awning to subtly announce the entry, without detracting from the historic facade.  Additionally, the awning offers protection from the elements.  Below that, we added new entry doors which we recessed to comply with current accessibility requirements.  The recessed doors also allow for a concealed security gate that closes when the building is unoccupied.

  Similarly, we combined a sleek new reception desk and a palette of wood with high-gloss lacquer.  This was another way to contrast modern design with the industrial structure.  We also installed a new, steel staircase that connects a refurbished second floor and mezzanine to the entry.  To make the building feel warmer, we added wood paneling and fabrics to selected walls and ceilings.

  Within the open-plan office space, we added conference rooms, break-out “pods” and phone booths for smaller group work and privacy. Future tenants will supply their own work stations to the pre-wired building and “plug-in”.

  Historic Warehouse Renovation – Partners

  Interior Design: Suzanne Kisbye

  Contractor: Derry Casey Construction