For more than 70 years, the Evelyn and Walter Haas, Jr. Fund (Haas Jr. Fund) has advanced the philanthropic impact of the Levi Strauss family legacy through $695 million in grants to organizations working to expand rights and create opportunities.  Inspired by the deep mission and values of the non-profit, the interior renovation of its new headquarters prioritizes the well-being of occupants – and a culture where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive – while maximizing access to phenomenal views of San Francisco.  Its design provides both a welcoming, residential-like space for Board Members to visit and an elevated workplace setting for staff.

Located on the 16th floor of a high-rise, in the heart of the Financial District, the 7,900-square-foot renovation of existing office space centered on fostering connection, adaptability, equity, and joy.  To achieve this vision, open collaboration and gathering zones – ranging from a library/lounge that anchors the southwest corner of the floorplan to flexible meeting rooms that support diverse uses – are strategically integrated throughout the office to encourage dynamic team interaction, supported by acoustic drapery and baffles to mitigate noise disruption.  Arched openings signify key areas for social gathering and collaboration and help to define destinations within the workspace.   Frameless glazing of offices and meeting venues provide abundant access to views and daylight throughout the floor-plate, while reinforcing the value of “transparency” in the fund.  This principle is further reflected in the distinctive glazing between perimeter offices, where dividing walls are held back from the corners, amplifying the sense of openness along circulation corridors.

A strategically located amenity space, with an open kitchen and community table, is a key feature of the project.  Offering picturesque views of Coit Tower and the Bay, it draws people together for impromptu socializing while providing the opportunity for respite and connection with the outdoors. On the opposite side of the entry lobby, two glass-enclosed conference rooms, equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, are separated by a movable partition that, when drawn, provides an extra-large, “all hands” meeting area.  The adaptable assembly space accommodates a range of activities.

The project’s interior language is inspired by the California landscape — a tribute to the client’s deep connection to the Bay Area – featuring natural colors and textures like FSC-certified wood plank flooring, as well as local artisan materials, such as wall tiles from Heath Ceramics. Undulating ceilings and curved archways also nod to the regional landscape and traditional Spanish architecture, respectively, to reinforce the California vibe.  Strategically placed jewel tone accents – captured in the carpet, wall graphics, furniture, and “jewel box” meeting room – express the client’s bold commitment to arts and activism, enhanced by the Fund’s curated art collection showcased throughout the space. 

Conscientious material selection free from red-listed chemicals and all-gender restrooms further advance health and wellness, equity, and inclusivity.

TEF Design team
Douglas Tom, FAIA
Kate Thorson
Samantha Rose
Rebecca Cisnero