Touted as a local law firm with international reach, Nixon Peabody prioritizes a culture of innovation. The key design concepts utilized for their space were ‘connection, reflection, light, and texture.’ From almost every intersection point within their new 50,000 SF office space, clients, guests and staff members are treated to sweeping views of San Francisco. Natural light brightens the entire office space through extensive use of glass. The best views were reserved for communal spaces including open collaboration areas, conference rooms, cafes, and staff workstations.

Throughout the client-facing floor (the 32nd), several custom folding, pivoting, and retractable walls allow the space to be easily transformed to accommodate different groups, meetings and events. A consistent element in this space is the dynamic light pattern that dances across the visually seamless acoustic ceiling in an energetic and active pattern. The impact of these linear light elements is bolstered as they reflect on glass features and the highly-polished porcelain floor within this space. The windows at Embarcadero Center serve as strong vertical elements that cast defined beams of light through the space.

Bright pops of color embody the firm brand and activate the rich textiles throughout the furnishings. The organic form of the custom bronze desk provides a soft counterpoint to the Embarcadero Center’s strong rectilinear lines. A custom three-story stair is anchored by a faceted bronze feature wall, serving to literally connect the office and strengthen the concept of both collaboration and reflection. This stair helps to foster easy communication between floors, and is aligned to communal space for open work areas and an adjacent café on each floor.

Photography: Thomas J. Story