MacCracken Robinson Architects (MRA) was tasked with designing a new office space for a venture capital firm in the historic North Beach District of San Francisco. The 1908 building is a typical brick and timber two-storey structure, which had endured multiple invasive remodels that covered original materials and finishes, partitioned spaces, and introduced suspended ceiling tiles. Their revamped design not only echoes the city’s rich past but also shines with an industrial touch, setting the stage for innovation and collaboration in the heart of a city known for its architectural wonders.
MRA restored the original open spaces, reconsidered the layout to suit the user, and introduced a new primary open stair to be a focal point and create a stronger connection between the two levels. A large skylight was added to further highlight the stairs and bring natural light to both floors in the center of the space. Heavy timber structural members and existing brick walls were exposed where possible, creating a foundation of warmth and texture to receive new building components and materials that are primarily natural, sustainable, and complementary to the original elements.
The ground floor provides a public space for the client’s use, entertainment, and gatherings, with the upper floor consisting of a large main conference room, open work areas, private offices, and a small gym. The stairway, which bridges the two floors, blends blackened hot-rolled steel with delicate European white oak treads and risers. The design cascades down a bent steel base. Exposed bolts and connections showcase the raw beauty of construction. Meanwhile, expanded steel mesh offers privacy and shows movement, striking a perfect balance.
The stairs and podium are screened from the circulation ramp by three custom 3D-printed parametric panels derived from the skeleton of a precast concrete cladding panel. The panels serve a dual purpose of creating a semi-transparent barrier between circulation areas and act as an immediate showcase of the client’s mission to find/invest in new and exciting companies in the construction and engineering industry. Equally important to showcasing the client’s belief in new technologies, was to show their commitment to sustainable design, materials, and resources which mandated a LEED Gold certification for the project.
