Access to a large talent pool, the possibility of venture capital, and proximity to like-minded individuals makes San Francisco an attractive location for tech-startups. In addition to big-league players such as Google, Facebook, and Apple, there are more than 2,000 startups in San Francisco setting up shop.
Naturally, San Francisco hosts some of the world’s most beautiful workplaces. Google’s Googleplex resembles a playful, inventive campus, while Apple’s future workplace is dubbed ‘The Spaceship’. Another well-known tech giant, Twitter, opted to reinvent an older building, turning a former retail store into a modern “bird’s nest”.
While architects get the credit for these designs, it is the contractors who bring to life their visions from blueprint to structure. Below are the best office contractors in San Francisco, none of whom have any shortage of experience in creating complex, modern workplaces.
The Core Group
Address:
890 North McCarthy Blvd, Suite 100, Milpitas, CA, 95035
The Core Group, founded in 2004, has diverse experience in general contracting due to their projects with some of the biggest industry players in technology and health. The firm builds for clients in the technological and medical sectors, including research labs. Their clients include Google, Intuit, eBay, AstraZeneca, Theranos, Yahoo!, VMWare, and Stanford.
The firm’s work include a modernist approach, with emphasis on white walls, with contrasting dark colors for accents. The Core Group offers end-to-end solutions to any construction project, from pre-construction, the construction phase itself, documentation, and post-construction. In their own words: “The Core Group does it all. We manage every aspect of the process – from permitting during the pre-construction phase to training and turnover after the project is complete. We have high client retention and work with some of the most well-known corporations and renown individuals in Silicon Valley.”
The firm operates in the San Francisco Bay Area and constructs projects upwards of $20 million.. The firm was voted twice for the years 2015 and 2016 as one of San Francisco Bay Area’s Top Workplaces.
Delawie
Address:
1515 Morena Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92110
Delawie may be headquartered in San Diego, but their work spans across California with projects expanding into Arizona and Hawaii. They are on this list for their work on the Silicon Valley Capital Club. Delawie was established in 1961 and has focused on a variety of design projects, including corporate, educational, civic, and government facilities. The firm is led by Principals Andrew Rodrigues, Paul Schroeder, Frank Ternasky, and Mike Asaro. As a firm, Delawie believes in holistic and collaborative design, valuing all parts of the design process and the seamless merging of all aspects of a project. Delawie is an award-winning firm, boasting titles from American Architecture Awards, Orchid Awards, and Citation for Excellence in Architecture Awards.
The Silicon Valley Capital Club was a remodel project that required an intensive overhaul from reconfiguring the entryway to adding spaces and replacing furnishings. The club looks over Downtown San Jose, so an important element was to ensure that the view was optimized and that diners could take full advantage of the outdoor deck. The interior was completely updated so the Silicon Valley Capital Club would retain its reputation for being a premier business club in San Jose. If you ever visit, be sure to enjoy the 360-degree view from atop the building.
Fink Architecture
Address:
6701 Hollis Street, Emeryville, CA 94608
Fink Architecture is responsible for some of Silicon Valley’s award-winning restaurants. Founded by Robert Fink, the firm was built on the concept of leaving the world better than we found it. Each project is treated with care and a sense of environmental responsibility, combined with a guided process and a desire to create environments that are warm and inviting. Fink’s work has been featured in California Home + Design, Eater SF, Western Interiors and Design, and Design for Living. Aside from restaurants, Fink is known for some beautiful residential projects in the Palo Alto, Menlo Park, and Los Gatos neighborhoods, as well as wineries in Sonoma and Napa.
Fink is behind the Brazilian-style churrasco Pampas in Palo Alto, which used the existing structure in a creative way with the installation of a mezzanine in the center of the restaurant, creating private dining below and a more communal space above. The brick walls serve as a backdrop against the side dining areas, which inspire a more intimate feel. The design, which is earthy and modern, reflects the Brazilian culture as well as the location. Calafia, the restaurant launched by Charlie Ayers, was a concept that originated at Google, which makes it a true Silicon Valley brainchild. The cafe, lounge, bar, market, and kitchen combination creates a retail space that is comfortable and caters to organic, locally provided ingredients. The restaurant even uses recycled, reclaimed, and repurposed materials where it can. The counters are “paperstone” and are made from recycled paper. Lamp shades are made of burlap sacks and there’s even a chandelier crafted from 766 milk bottles that hangs over a communal table made from reclaimed wood.
Studio S Squared Architecture
Address:
1000 S. Winchester Boulevard, San Jose, CA 95128
Studio S Squared is a full-service architecture firm based in San Jose. They offer full disclosure and transparency around their process and project structures, so potential clients can have a better understanding of what it might be like to work with them. Studio S Squared takes the time to provide a detailed description of each phase of their work, how they work, what tools they use, and how the client is involved, which builds confidence into their firm.
Studio S Squared brings charm and personality to the San Jose area with projects like Caffe Trieste. The cafe is located in an area up and coming as a theater and arts district, making Caffe Trieste a cozy- and homey-like atmosphere and design. The cafe and coffee shop is a true passion project, as the owner admits that owning a place like this has been a lifelong dream. The passion is undeniable when you walk into Caffe Trieste and see the heart and soul in both the design and details of the space. Additionally, Studio S Squared shows of their range of style with the Fahrenheit Ultra Lounge, a collaboration with a Texas-based interior design firm, Jones Baker. This upscale bar and lounge is located in downtown San Jose and has a swanky vibe, filled with rich textures and deep reds.
TECTA
Address:
2747 19th Street, San Francisco, CA 94110
The San Francisco-based firm TECTA is on this list for their vast range of restaurant projects covering not only San Francisco but also Silicon Valley and the surrounding areas. They could not be left off of this list, because they have become known for their work specializing in restaurant and retail spaces. Some of their biggest clients include Starbucks, Pinkberry, and McDonald’s, as well as a long list of additional chains and eateries. TECTA prides themselves on their diverse team of the best and brightest designers and technicians, who provide big firm services and resources combined with the quick turnaround of a small firm. Principal Ahmad Mohazab started TECTA in 1985 and brings decades of architecture, interior design, and planning experience to the table. He is licensed in more than 30 states and holds a number of design and civic awards.
TECTA is behind The Catamount in Los Gatos, a new restaurant that pays homage to the historic context of the area, referring to the indigenous mountain cats that once roamed the area. The Catamount is comfortable but upscale and embodies a social club vibe. With the combination of white space, wood, and leather seating areas, the restaurant creates a welcoming space that is made warm by the exposed light bulb fixtures. High windows and some brightly colored accents add light and energy. The Rootstock Wine Bar in Cupertino, CA is a project with a design that highlights the indoor outdoor atmosphere. The earth tones are inviting and casual. The eclectic lighting fixtures paired with the industrial stools and seating creates an intimate setting perfect for wine tasting and tapas with friends.
Eaton Hall Architecture
Address:
1501 The Alameda, Suite 105, San Jose, CA 95126
Eaton Hall Architecture was founded by Jeffrey Eaton and Chris Hall. Together they have more than 40 years of experience in architecture and design. As a firm, they value meeting the needs of their clients with their passion for intelligent, effective design solutions. Eaton previously owned and operated his own firm for 12 years before joining forces with Hall. Eaton’s work was focused on the private sector in commercial hospitality, and he now manages the design staff. Hall has a background that is more focused on public commercial, and he brings his skills in planning and design to the team. He is largely responsible for securing projects and maintaining client relations. The firm values thoughtful design and is willing to assist their clients through all aspects of planning, designing, and building, so they can create spaces that enhance the quality of life for those who use them. They have offices in both San Francisco and Silicon Valley and their projects span much of the Bay Area.
Eaton Hall is behind Enoteca La Storia in Los Gatos, a highly rated Italian wine bar in Silicon Valley. The space is 4,500 square feet and features a warehouse atmosphere, with a long wall of shelving where a vast array of wines are featured and proudly displayed. Eaton Hall has also worked on Naschmarkt in Campbell — a truly unique experience in New Austrian cuisine. A larger commercial project includes the Blossom Hill Retail Center, a renovation of a space built in the 1950s and that now features dozens of retail shops and restaurants. Their newest venture is David Kinch’s latest concept, Bywater, a NOLA-inspired restaurant in Los Gatos.
Delawie
Address:
1515 Morena Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92110
Delawie may be headquartered in San Diego, but their work spans across California with projects expanding into Arizona and Hawaii. They are on this list for their work on the Silicon Valley Capital Club. Delawie was established in 1961 and has focused on a variety of design projects, including corporate, educational, civic, and government facilities. The firm is led by Principals Andrew Rodrigues, Paul Schroeder, Frank Ternasky, and Mike Asaro. As a firm, Delawie believes in holistic and collaborative design, valuing all parts of the design process and the seamless merging of all aspects of a project. Delawie is an award-winning firm, boasting titles from American Architecture Awards, Orchid Awards, and Citation for Excellence in Architecture Awards.
The Silicon Valley Capital Club was a remodel project that required an intensive overhaul from reconfiguring the entryway to adding spaces and replacing furnishings. The club looks over Downtown San Jose, so an important element was to ensure that the view was optimized and that diners could take full advantage of the outdoor deck. The interior was completely updated so the Silicon Valley Capital Club would retain its reputation for being a premier business club in San Jose. If you ever visit, be sure to enjoy the 360-degree view from atop the building.
Fink Architecture
Address:
6701 Hollis Street, Emeryville, CA 94608
Fink Architecture is responsible for some of Silicon Valley’s award-winning restaurants. Founded by Robert Fink, the firm was built on the concept of leaving the world better than we found it. Each project is treated with care and a sense of environmental responsibility, combined with a guided process and a desire to create environments that are warm and inviting. Fink’s work has been featured in California Home + Design, Eater SF, Western Interiors and Design, and Design for Living. Aside from restaurants, Fink is known for some beautiful residential projects in the Palo Alto, Menlo Park, and Los Gatos neighborhoods, as well as wineries in Sonoma and Napa.
Fink is behind the Brazilian-style churrasco Pampas in Palo Alto, which used the existing structure in a creative way with the installation of a mezzanine in the center of the restaurant, creating private dining below and a more communal space above. The brick walls serve as a backdrop against the side dining areas, which inspire a more intimate feel. The design, which is earthy and modern, reflects the Brazilian culture as well as the location. Calafia, the restaurant launched by Charlie Ayers, was a concept that originated at Google, which makes it a true Silicon Valley brainchild. The cafe, lounge, bar, market, and kitchen combination creates a retail space that is comfortable and caters to organic, locally provided ingredients. The restaurant even uses recycled, reclaimed, and repurposed materials where it can. The counters are “paperstone” and are made from recycled paper. Lamp shades are made of burlap sacks and there’s even a chandelier crafted from 766 milk bottles that hangs over a communal table made from reclaimed wood.
Studio S Squared Architecture
Address:
1000 S. Winchester Boulevard, San Jose, CA 95128
Studio S Squared is a full-service architecture firm based in San Jose. They offer full disclosure and transparency around their process and project structures, so potential clients can have a better understanding of what it might be like to work with them. Studio S Squared takes the time to provide a detailed description of each phase of their work, how they work, what tools they use, and how the client is involved, which builds confidence into their firm.
Studio S Squared brings charm and personality to the San Jose area with projects like Caffe Trieste. The cafe is located in an area up and coming as a theater and arts district, making Caffe Trieste a cozy- and homey-like atmosphere and design. The cafe and coffee shop is a true passion project, as the owner admits that owning a place like this has been a lifelong dream. The passion is undeniable when you walk into Caffe Trieste and see the heart and soul in both the design and details of the space. Additionally, Studio S Squared shows of their range of style with the Fahrenheit Ultra Lounge, a collaboration with a Texas-based interior design firm, Jones Baker. This upscale bar and lounge is located in downtown San Jose and has a swanky vibe, filled with rich textures and deep reds.
TECTA
Address:
2747 19th Street, San Francisco, CA 94110
The San Francisco-based firm TECTA is on this list for their vast range of restaurant projects covering not only San Francisco but also Silicon Valley and the surrounding areas. They could not be left off of this list, because they have become known for their work specializing in restaurant and retail spaces. Some of their biggest clients include Starbucks, Pinkberry, and McDonald’s, as well as a long list of additional chains and eateries. TECTA prides themselves on their diverse team of the best and brightest designers and technicians, who provide big firm services and resources combined with the quick turnaround of a small firm. Principal Ahmad Mohazab started TECTA in 1985 and brings decades of architecture, interior design, and planning experience to the table. He is licensed in more than 30 states and holds a number of design and civic awards.
TECTA is behind The Catamount in Los Gatos, a new restaurant that pays homage to the historic context of the area, referring to the indigenous mountain cats that once roamed the area. The Catamount is comfortable but upscale and embodies a social club vibe. With the combination of white space, wood, and leather seating areas, the restaurant creates a welcoming space that is made warm by the exposed light bulb fixtures. High windows and some brightly colored accents add light and energy. The Rootstock Wine Bar in Cupertino, CA is a project with a design that highlights the indoor outdoor atmosphere. The earth tones are inviting and casual. The eclectic lighting fixtures paired with the industrial stools and seating creates an intimate setting perfect for wine tasting and tapas with friends.
BAR Architects
Address:
901 Battery Street, Suite 300, San Francisco, CA 94111
BAR Architects has been in business for over 40 years. They focus on inspiring spaces that resonate, and they have a reputation for design excellence. BAR Architects also prides itself on the ability to nurture client relationships and find tailored solutions for specific sites and projects. They emphasize their ability to listen to their clients, assess a project, and create an interactive process that is enjoyable for both them and their clients. BAR Architects was most recently recognized as Engineering News-Record’s (ENR) 2017 Top Design Firms and has received the Top Projects Award from the North Bay Business Journal, a Special Recognition Award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Livable Buildings Awards and Outstanding Home Awards, and many more. Their projects span from residential to mixed-use spaces, including campus housing, wineries, resorts, and restaurants.
Seven Restaurant in San Jose features a 108-seat space with tall windows and high ceilings to create a perfect atmosphere for dining in the daytime. There is an elevated bar and lounge area that allows for a space more attuned to nightlife. The entrance features a textured brick wall with an elliptical shape that makes for a striking first impression. One of BAR Architects’ exciting new endeavors is a project for the Los Gatos area. The plan is to create a mixed-use space with retail, luxury residential flats, and senior housing, all located around a central neighborhood street. The residential amenities will feature a concierge, a swimming pool, clubhouses, individual garages, and an underground parking structure. The market hall is designed to house quality food establishments, as well as become a hub for events like farmer’s markets and festivals, breathing new life and energy into the Los Gatos area.
CCS Architecture
Address:
44 Mclea Court, San Francisco CA 94103
CCS Architecture is an internationally acclaimed firm with a number of successful restaurant projects, as well as residential, commercial, and mixed-use spaces. CCS is based in modernist tastes with a balance of creativity, innovation, and the use of quality materials and service. CCS was founded by Cass Calder Smith in 1990 and includes partners Barbara Vickroy, director of interior design, Melissa Werner, director of operations, and Taylor Lawson, associate principal. Notable awards include the AIA|LA Restaurant Award, Hospitality Design Award for Best Restaurant, Restaurant & Bar Awards, a Gold Key Award and Record Interiors for Best Restaurant, among others.They’ve been featured in Silicon Valley Magazine, Objekt, Elle Decor, Beach Architecture, Luxe San Francisco, Wallpaper, New York Spaces, Interior Design, Thrillist, and California Home + Design.
CCS is behind a long list of SF and Bay Area eateries, including Nomica, Volta, Hog Island Oyster Co., Tap (415), Olympic Club, Terzo, Twenty Five Lusk, OneUp at the Grand Hyatt, Lamar Cebicheria, Rose Pistola, Lulu, The Plant Cafe, Perbacco, Barbacco, and Azie. Reposado in Palo Alto was intended to bring upscale Mexican cuisine to Palo Alto. The restaurant was originally a 1920s feed and grain warehouse with a cafe. The space now seats 180 between the main dining area and mezzanine. The restaurant itself sits in the heart of Palo Alto, on Hamilton Avenue. The big mahogany doors and stainless steel canopy make a statement upon entry. There are large windows that slide and open up to allow for an indoor-outdoor atmosphere. The mezzanine allows for private event space and has its own bar and skylights.
More recently, CCS Architecture completed the PAUSA Bar + Cookery in San Mateo. Located on 3rd street in historic downtown San Mateo the restaurant is a reinvention by the same owners of the old Spiedo. The large, open space was designed to evoke an Italian feel. The metal beams in the ceiling and metal light fixtures bring a modern sleek ambiance to the restaurant. In contrast, light wood tables and brown chairs warm up the space to create a welcome friendly environment. Sliding glass doors welcome the streets foot traffic into the restaurant for a drink or to stay for dinner. The marble bar has marvelous caged shelving with brass trim. The design is elegant and incredibly well lit. Large metal sheets frame the open kitchen and the entrance of PAUSA like a painting.
Studio Ren
Address:
3533 Laurelvale Drive, Studio City, CA 91604
Studio Ren is led by Design Principal Brendan Canning and Managing Principal Cynthia Wang — out of Los Angeles, CA. Canning’s specialty is high-end residential, and he has a number of commercial projects under his belt coming from the Midwest. He is inspired by the likes of Mies van der Rohe, Minoru Yamasaki, and Frank Lloyd Wright. Cynthia has a strong background in managing projects across residential, retail, hospitality, office, and institutional spaces. While this firm is not based in the Bay Area or Silicon Valley, their recent work is making a splash in Palo Alto.
Recently, a restaurant called Bird Dog took home the AIA award for 2016 Restaurant Design. This project, which is helping bring style and innovation to Palo Alto, did not come without challenges. Studio Ren dealt with a number of obstacles, one in particular being budget. When older buildings are renovated, oftentimes much of the budget can go to replacing the infrastructure. As a result, things like plumbing and leaky roofs must be dealt with before any of the design gets implemented. Studio Ren kept the details to simple materials, but in a way, limitations like these can work in a space’s favor, forcing a project to be edited. Bird Dog seems to be popping up in every major food publication and local news for the incredible experience it provides.
Studio Terpeluk
Address:
148 Townsend Street #1, San Francisco, CA 94107
Studio Terpeluk is a San Francisco-based firm that was founded by Brett Terpeluk. Terpeluk, who grew up in Pennsylvania, developed a strong appreciation for nature and history, and his passion for architecture earned him the Fossi traveling fellowship for outstanding student work. As a young architect in collaboration with Renzo Piano, Terpeluk helped with the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, the largest LEED Platinum museum in the world. Brett’s first restaurant project on his own was Farina — and it won Best Restaurant Design by AIA San Francisco. He may be a younger designer for the industry, but he is certainly one to watch, as his work is already breaking through the Silicon Valley and Bay Area scenes.
Roots & Rye is the latest from Studio Terpeluk, and the modern, American comfort food eatery is already making waves as one of Silicon Valley’s best restaurants as of 2016. The restaurant features a laid back decor, comfortable sofas, fire pits, an open kitchen, and a chef’s table. The restaurant is located at Santana Row, a popular shopping center in San Jose. Farina was formerly a mid-century cookie factory in the Mission District of San Francisco. Terpeluk’s solution featured simple materials and keeping the space’s centerpiece — the food preparation counter that split the space into smaller, more intimate dining zones. The curved windows made for a beautiful backdrop for the ample sidewalk seating area. With an established portfolio like this one, it’s easy to see that Studio Terpeluk is making its name as a game changer in the Silicon Valley dining scene.
Arcsine
Address:
414 Thirteenth Street, Suite 350, Oakland, CA 94612
Arcsine is a firm focused on method, aesthetic, and client care. They tend to work mainly within the hospitality, workplace, and restaurant industries. The firm is led by Principals Daniel Scovill and Adam Winig, who both strive to create a positive experience for their clients, from the concept and design to the realization of the client’s goals. Adam Winig began at Gensler and Brayton Hughes Design Studio. He’s been a partner at Arcsine since 2006 and has worked on projects like the Palace Hotel in San Francisco. Daniel Scovill founded Arcine in 2003, wanting to establish a firm built on collaboration and innovation. His previous experience is with large commercial projects, also at one point with Gensler. Arcsine tops the list for the number of hot, trending restaurants they have contributed to the Silicon Valley and Bay Area.
The Blue Door is located in San Jose and the owner aims to have his contemporary Greek evoke the his favorite resorts in Southern Greece. The Blue Door sits among a few chain restaurants, but what it offers is a more sophisticated option that could serve both suburban families and the Silicon Valley crowd. American meets Mediterranean here, and the Blue Door menu shows it with both meatloaf and mac and cheese on the menu. Arcsine created a layout that seats 194 diners with an additional 84 seats on the patio. The white exterior of the restaurant is reminiscent of the beautiful buildings of Santorini, while the darker painted woods inside keep the atmosphere feeling warm and comfortable. Neutral tones bring out a more contemporary feel. The restaurant space features a large bar with stone backsplash, lit display shelving, and furniture that reminds patrons of home.
