Luxe previews four new contemporary co-working spots where design takes top billing.
THE ASSEMBLY
PHOTO: MARGARET AUSTIN PHOTOGRAPHY
The female-focused social hub, wellness retreat and co-working space in the Mission is housed in a church dating back to 1905. Designed by the husband-and-wife duo behind Joshua Tree House, the space greets guests with cheery yellow-and-white Fireclay tiles that feel more Spanish hacienda than historic church. “We wanted to create a space that felt like a real getaway,” says co-founder Molly Goodson. Inside, beam ceilings and stained glass are juxtaposed with neon wall art by local artist Meryl Pataky and a coffee bar wrapped in Aleksandra Zee’s woodwork. Raw-edge wood tables by Katie Gong Design provide ample workstations, and small meeting rooms transition to areas for acupuncture and manicures on the weekends.
THE HIVERY
PHOTO: JACQUELYN WARNER
Femininity is front and center at this women-run work space overlooking downtown Mill Valley. LeAnn Wanninger, principal of firm Design Renegades, imagined the space to feel inclusive rather than intimidating. White lacquer desks, Lucite chairs and faux fur lend a sophisticated vibe, while natural elements throughout create a Zenlike atmosphere. “The design is about using light, art and space to celebrate what’s possible in this powerful movement of women using their voices, creating and making an impact,” says founder Grace Kraaijvanger.
CANOPY
RENDERING, COURTESY JACKSON SQUARE
Located in Jackson Square, this flexible office is the second by Yves Behar and Amir Mortazavi, who found inspiration in 1950s San Francisco in the form of textured black surfaces, exposed concrete and oxidized-copper accents. “The intent is to add a striking new idea for what work is within the North Beach area,” says Behar. The 13,000-square-foot office was designed as an ergonomic and distraction-free environment with soundproof Modernus glass partitions, Herman Miller furniture and Eames chairs. The central lounge is an architectural tour de force with a tree-like design that serves as a privacy screen to the conference room and work areas. But the main selling point is the outdoor work terrace with a lounge space and heated seating by Galanter & Jones.
AVANT SPACE
PHOTO: JASPER SANIDAD
This Marina District co-working spot feels more like a chic friend’s apartment than an office. “Avant Space was created to bring the local community together in a high-tech, upscale setting,” says co-founder Sean Breuner. “Our focus is to deliver a better work-life balance that’s more convenient and environmentally sustainable.” Designed by firms Gensler, Siren and InsideSource, the bi-level space features skylights, hardwood floors and adjustable workstations. Unique accents, such as a wall of hotel keys from all over the world and wallpaper of local landmarks and luminaries like Alice Waters, set Avant Space apart.
