Gensler

An investment in the city of its founding, Gensler’s San Francisco workplace transforms a floor of Daniel Burnham’s historic Mills Building into a model of resilient design and low‑carbon innovation. The office honors its landmark setting while operating as a living laboratory for adaptable, future‑ready work environments.

The large, single floorplate provides a total of 376 work points and 12+ seating postures across three interconnected zones to support a spectrum of work modes. A 60-foot skylight anchors the office, using reclaimed pine trellises and reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

The LEED Platinum workplace aligns with Gensler’s carbon‑neutral goals through a retrofit to all‑electric systems. Since the beginning 2025, it has been operating at carbon zero energy, becoming the firm’s first U.S. office to achieve this level of performance. The high-performing workplace also achieved Fitwel 3-star certification, prioritizing evidence-based design and operational strategies for total occupant wellbeing and inclusivity. The space’s circulation exceeds ADA requirements, ergonomic variety supports neurodiversity, and advanced AV with ALS systems ensures equitable hybrid collaboration.

Material selection prioritized lower embodied carbon and reuse wherever possible. All wood is reclaimed, from 100 year‑old submerged white oak logs to salvaged Treasure Island pilings. Carbon‑negative carpet and biopolymer terrazzo further reduce embodied carbon while improving acoustics.

Gensler’s San Francisco office preserves history while modeling a future of downtown revitalization propelled by sustainability and equity.

Material selection prioritized lower embodied carbon and reuse wherever possible. All wood is reclaimed, from century‑old Douglas fir to salvaged Treasure Island pilings.Carbon‑negative carpet and biopolymer terrazzo further reduce embodied carbon while improving acoustics.

Gensler’s San Francisco office preserves history while modeling a future of downtown revitalization propelled by sustainability and equity.