A historic building gets a bright, airy renovation
Located in San Francisco’s historic Jackson Square District, this new workplace for a financial firm brings light and warmth to an 1887 masonry building. Originally constructed as a livery stable and carriage house, the Kentucky Stables Building was converted to office space in the 1970s. A series of significant alterations, including two floors with very low floor heights, had resulted in a dark and dated workplace. Our intervention removes a portion of the third floor, creating three tall floors through which daylight filters down from a pair of skylights. Minimal structural reinforcement was required, relying on prior retrofits and strategic removal rather than addition. A new stair connects all four levels from the nearly 14-foot-tall lobby, which doubles as a reception area and event space. A double-layer facade with a system of operable glass partitions allows this floor to be reconfigured in a number of ways—creating an enclosed terrace, or fully opening the lobby to the street.
Existing architectural features, including exposed brick and timber, are counterpoints to the bright and airy new work areas. Making use of the remaining low-ceiling spaces, the retained portion of the third floor is reimagined as a warm and intimate cafe, where staff gather for lunch as a cornerstone of their office culture. A boardroom designed to host confidential clients is nestled into the building at base level, while light-filled meeting rooms are distributed throughout the space, including under the skylight on the fourth floor.
The material approach in the renovation is quiet and minimal, contrasting with the textures of the historic brick and wood details. The palette includes brushed stainless steel, rich marble finishes, white oak veneer, and venetian plaster. The furniture selections support a hospitable, comfortable, and calm interior, while lush plants on every level contribute to a healthy workspace that is connected to the neighborhood outside.
