Creating an Architecturally Distinctive Experience for Rejuvenation of an Historic Powerhouse

Constructed in 1912 by Charles Peter Weeks, this historic building housed the generators and electrical substation for a 69-acre, 19th Century shipyard. The Powerhouse is now reinvented as an 18,000 sq ft facility whose use reflects the evolution of industry to the present day. The developer and the design team closely collaborated with the City and Port of San Francisco, the National Park Service’s office, and California’s Office of Historic Preservation Office.

The industrial infrastructure (massive pneumatic compressors, 5-ton gantry cranes) and early 20th C elements (original factory light fixtures alongside hardwoods, marble, brass, and mosaic tile) are cherished by San Franciscans. While the facades did not undergo significant alternation, work was required to make the interior functional. To create space, defunct electrical switchgear and other equipment was removed except for one of four historic compressors. This artifact, cranes and the building shell, are highlighted with LEDs. Once cleared the Powerhouse’s height is amplified and further accentuated by tall windows.

A new mezzanine uses heavy-timber and steel guardrail balustrades to complement the exposed wood roof and steel trusses. The mezzanine frames the reception, where a concrete desk and freestanding hardwood entry wall separate it from the open workspace.

Below-grade areas of the lower level with reduced or no exposure to daylight accommodate bathrooms, conference rooms, and a kitchen. A new 2,600 ft addition to that level provides daylit open workspace and an accessible deck overlooking a waterfront park site. Lighting design is instrumental in transforming the interior. The lower level is where this is especially significant; the windowless hallway is enlivened by sculptural pendant lights, creating an architecturally distinctive experience.

Project Information

Architect: Marcy Wong Donn Logan Architects