Our partnership with Cleary Gottlieb, an international law firm known for globalising the legal profession, began in 2023. We undertook two significant projects on opposite coasts of the United States. Central to our collaboration was the redesign of its San Francisco headquarters—a fusion of modern design, flexibility and the warm materiality of the West Coast.
The firm wanted to create a versatile, future-proof environment with provisions for potential expansion into a full two-floor occupancy. At the same time, this project aimed to establish the firm’s presence and integrate the local culture into its operations. This ensured the space resonated with the community and the bi-coastal teams that would inhabit it.
Originally planned for two full floors, we designed the headquarters to occupy 1.5 floors after careful optimisation. This thorough planning exercise met the need for private offices and other spatial requirements without necessitating more real estate.
Our focus on flexible, modular office layouts created a space that will evolve with the firm. Work settings support everything from individual work to collaborative engagements across the thoughtfully planned floors. Arrangements also allow for conversion between single and double-wide shared offices, while studies of double occupancy configurations were conducted to maximise space.
The design reflects Cleary Gottlieb as a global brand while embracing distinctive Californian elements. Aesthetics marry clean, elevated design with natural elements like wood flooring and greenery, creating an environment that is both professional and inviting. Furthermore, we prioritised using low VOC and red list-free materials and FSC-certified wood.
Our design aligns with modern trends observed among our legal clients, such as creating visibility and connection between clients and attorneys while maintaining privacy and providing anchor spaces for people to gather. The space features numerous areas for individual work while maintaining an open feel through glass partitions and visual cues. This approach drives collaboration and mentorship between colleagues while offering panoramic Bay and San Francisco vistas.
We reimagined an interconnecting stair to serve as a physical and symbolic link between public and private zones, enhancing flow and interaction. This feature complements the multifunctional space that connects the reception, conference centre and café. These areas are designed for versatility to host in-office activities and community events.
Our team focused on hospitality-driven design for client-facing spaces to ensure they are both memorable and welcoming. Amenities such as a fitness room, games room, indoor Zen rock garden and a reading area highlight the firm’s commitment to employee wellbeing and work-life balance. Additionally, a full catering kitchen with service stations is tailored to support the firm’s evolving needs.
We faced logistical challenges like scheduling conflicts and permit issues. To expedite completion, we employed a phased permitting process, ensuring the project was completed on time.
In addition to these challenges, we contended with structural constraints like low ceiling heights and even lower beams. This required a coordinated effort with MEP teams to efficiently integrate all necessary systems into the limited ceiling space. We leveraged lighting solutions to give the illusion of a taller, more open space. Our goal was for the ceiling to enhance the overall ambience and views, not to dominate them, and we achieved just that.
Material selections also adapted during the project. Initially, we planned to retain the existing concrete floors. However, the team opted for warmer wood flooring after evaluating the condition of the materials. This shift further enhanced the space’s welcoming nature.
We went through workshops, interviews and detailed planning with Cleary, prioritising real estate, vision and bringing operational needs into every facet of the design.
Our approach optimised space and improved group cohesion within the workplace environment. Following this project’s success, we are also undertaking a master planning initiative in New York.
The design aligns with the firm’s corporate identity and requirements while bringing local character into view. Through design and planning, we created a workspace that meets our client’s immediate needs and anticipates future growth.
Completed
2024
San Francisco
2,973 sq m / 32,000 sq ft
Emily Hagopian
