The SOM-designed building 555 California Street was completed in 1969 and stands as San Francisco’s fourth-tallest structure. Originally conceived as the world headquarters for Bank of America, the clientele still leans towards high-end financial service and smaller hedge funds. Facing competition from glitzier high-rises in the city’s SOMA neighborhood, the client, Vornado Property Trust, wanted to conceive an aspirational show suite that could effectively demonstrate to prospective tenants the possibilities their building could afford.

Occupying the southern half of one of the building’s top floors, we designed the show suite to offer stunning views overlooking the city, bay, and natural scenery beyond. The floorplan is divided into two suites of equal size with a large portion dedicated to communal lounge, pantry, and a continuous gallery wall that flanks the main passageway. Niched alcoves provide opportunity for artwork and bench seatings.

The building’s iconic zigzagged profile, originally inspired by vernacular bay window architecture, inspired a motif of chamfered corners that adorns millwork and furniture elements throughout. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding city, a natural and tactile material palette of roman clay paint, wood flooring, ceppo bianco marble, and dark grey oak creates an inviting hospitality-leaning office space. To complete the vision, furnishings and local artwork create a layered and lived in quality that has attracted renewed interest for the building.