49 South Van Ness

2021 Architecture Merit Award

49 South Van Ness brings City departments involved in design and construction of the public realm in San Francisco under one roof, improving the experience for people and communities who work with the City. Replacing a previously abandoned block, the building honors civic engagement with an optimistic and transparent design.

The jury loved how the project addresses the street level by creating a mid-block respite from the street with a beautiful, well-lit, art-filled, internal midblock passage. This civic building delivers a thoughtful, well-executed workplace for city employees, where beautifully light workspaces are combined with an inviting elevated work terrace.

Architect
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

General Contractor
Pankow Builders

Project/Construction Manager
San Francisco Public Works

Interiors
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

Developer
Related

Developer
Real Estate Division of the City Administrator’s Office

Landscape
TS Studio

Civil Engineer
Urban Design Consulting Engineers

Structural
DCI Engineers

Mechanical
CB Engineers

Electrical
CB Engineers

Plumbing
CB Engineers

Lighting
Francis Krahe & Associates

Acoustics
Charles M. Salter Associates, Inc.

Audio Visual
Smith, Fause & McDonald Inc.

Telecom
Charles M. Salter Associates, Inc.

Security
Smith, Fause & McDonald Inc.

Graphics and Signage
Skidmore, Owings & Merill

Facade
New Hudson Facades

Glazing
View Dynamic Glass

Photography
Jason O'Rear Photography