888 Brannan

A Tech Building Then—and Now

Originally built by the National Carbon Company, this historic structure at the corner of 8th and Brannan in San Francisco's South of Market neighborhood housed a manufacturing facility for Eveready Batteries in 1916.

Today, it has been completely renovated and leased to a fast-growing leader in new technology, Airbnb.

Property details

Size: 431,086 SF

Type: Office/Light Industrial

Location: 888 Brannan St
San Francisco, CA

Expertise: Asset Management
Design & Construction
Entitlement
Investment & Acquisitions

Award highlights: 2018 Architizer A+ Award Winner
2015 AIASF Merit Award
2014 NCC-ASLA Merit Award

Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982, the five-floor concrete warehouse once had a train track running through what is now the entrance lobby and central atrium. A foreclosure by Wells Fargo left the building 75 percent vacant when we purchased it in 2011. The original zoning required a split between office and light industrial use; however, we knew its historic designation allowed for full office use, so we successfully re-entitled the building for 100% office space.

In addition to a complete overhaul of all structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems, our extensive renovation focused on creating inviting collaboration spaces that strengthen the vibrant attitude of the Airbnb community.

We transformed the former loading dock into a much-needed outdoor area, incorporating a public courtyard that provides more work and social space for both building tenants and the surrounding neighborhood.

At the heart of the newly renovated 888 Brannan is a soaring atrium. The designers stripped the area to its essentials and crafted a versatile community space that supports everything from large gatherings to intimate lunches and spontaneous work sessions. A geometric green living wall enhances the North elevation, offering a natural contrast to the industrial interior.

The atrium’s finishes are inspired by nature and honor the building’s history with train tracks etched into the polished concrete floor.

Awards and Certifications

LEED Silver Certified

2018 Architizer A+ Award Winner, Concepts — Plus Architecture + Workspace

2015 AIASF Merit Award (Interior Architecture)

2014 NCC-ASLA Merit Award

2013 IDA Bronze in Architecture Categories / Renovation