In San Francisco’s iconic North Beach District, the North Beach Office emerges as a beacon of modernity and historic charm. Maccracken Robinson Architects masterfully transformed a 1908 brick and timber structure into a state-of-the-art office space.
This 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.

About North Beach Office
Reviving a Historical Gem in North Beach
MacCracken Robinson Architects (MRA) undertook the design of a new office space in San Francisco’s historic North Beach District. Nestled in a 1908 building, this brick and timber two-story edifice had previously suffered invasive remodels. These changes masked the original materials, divided spaces, and added unsightly ceiling tiles. Reconnecting Spaces and Infusing Identity
MRA unveiled the original spaces and tailored the layout to the client’s needs. They also introduced an open stairway, bridging the two floors. This stairway 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.
Letting in Light and Honoring Origins
To emphasize the stairway, a vast skylight bathes both floor...