Local 21 HQ

This project created a new permanent home for the Local 21 union in San Francisco. Previously a cotenant in a bland office space, this adaptive reuse of a historic building in downtown San Francisco created a meaningful and authentic home for this union with deep and long ties to the building industry in the area. Main challenges were a tight budget, a rushed schedule, and the challenges of getting natural light and views into the narrow and deep floorplate. Equity, representation and a place to gather together were prime design drivers, in order to make this truly feel like home to all union members, not just those who work in the building. Connection to history was made by enhancing and featuring the incredible historic structure and materials; edge lighting the original brick walls, opening up existing skylights, preserving existing hardware wherever possible and removing barriers to allowing light and view throughout the space. The result is a completely custom home for Local 21 that reflects their values and culture, in a space that speaks both to their long history, and bright future.