Located in San Francisco’s China Basin neighborhood just opposite AT&T Park, the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) headquarters is designed to meet the organization’s unique needs in addressing national health issues and health policy. KFF develops and runs its own policy analysis, polling, and journalism programs.

In addressing the space—a former industrial warehouse—the design team tackled the challenge of creating an open and collaborative headquarters, while also allowing occupants to do focused, individual work. The inherent conflict between these two objectives informed the solution, which includes clusters of glass-enclosed private offices strategically placed to feel private when seated at a desk, but transparent and open when standing.

The office design incorporates existing steel sash windows and exposed raw concrete columns with modern elements and a materials palette of reclaimed walnut, teak, ash, and bronze. Upon entering the lobby, guests are greeted by an active LED wall featuring the latest health news headlines. The display is incorporated into an illustrative health care history timeline exhibit, developed in collaboration with the client. These two elements—headlines and history—travel in parallel along the entry wall to be experienced simultaneously.

Another of the project’s major design objectives was to improve staff collaboration and cohesion. The kitchen and lunchroom are placed in the center of the workplace to create a hub for social interaction. Casual seating along main interior corridors allow for impromptu gatherings, while shared meeting rooms give board members, the media, or KFF’s Washington, D.C. colleagues a place to work during their stay.

At the heart of the office is a large conference center space, which incorporates advanced acoustics, audio-visual equipment, and food service support, providing KFF a dedicated place for internal workshops and presentations. The foundation also permits outside nonprofit organizations to use the space, free of charge.

Photography: Adam Rouse Photography