Commercial | Modern Office Space, CA
Originally constructed in 1927, this distinguished Beaux-Arts bank building possessed the scale, craftsmanship, and civic presence characteristic of an earlier era. After decades of occupancy by more than ten companies, however, a succession of poorly coordinated alterations had obscured its architectural integrity.
Tower Design approached the project as both a historic restoration and a sophisticated workplace transformation. Incompatible additions were removed, significant architectural elements were restored, and the original character of the building was reestablished as the foundation for a highly functional contemporary office.
The principal banking hall now accommodates 15 Knoll workstations beneath soaring ceilings, preserving the volume and grandeur of the original space while supporting a collaborative working environment. Ten private offices, glass-enclosed conference rooms, copy and support areas, a modern kitchen, and dedicated coffee stations were integrated without fragmenting the historic architecture.
Original bank vaults were imaginatively repurposed as a library and recreation room, giving these extraordinary spaces an active role in the daily culture of the company. Steel-and-glass doors provide acoustic separation and privacy while maintaining natural light, openness, and visual continuity.
Large-scale ceiling fixtures designed by Kathleen McMullen serve as both sculptural lighting and acoustic buffers. Their diffused illumination softens the expansive interior, while modern Italian leather furnishings and custom rugs made from sustainable materials introduce comfort, refinement, and an understated Old World sensibility.
The completed workplace balances heritage with performance. Employees move easily among collaborative work areas, private offices, meeting rooms, hospitality spaces, and informal places to step away from the desk. For clients and visitors, the restored architecture creates an immediate sense of substance, identity, and permanence.
This adaptive-reuse project demonstrates how an important historic building can support contemporary business while retaining the qualities that make it memorable. Explore the complete 1927 Beaux-Arts Historic Renovation.
Tower Design provides full-service commercial interior design for executive offices, headquarters, restaurants, boutique hotels, and architecturally significant properties. To discuss a distinctive commercial project, explore Tower Design or contact our studio.
