At the San Francisco historically designated Front Street Building, a voluntary seismic upgrade was performed. Located on what was once the edge of San Francisco Bay, its’ foundations rest on bay mud. The new seismic systems foundations for its three new braced frames were drilled as much as 120 feet deep beneath the existing building. The additional challenge was to keep the first floor restaurant operating throughout the upgrade. The project also involved completing renovation that had previously begun and abandoned midway. In addition to the interior and seismic upgrades, Levy Design Partners have designed a new façade, recalling the essence of the original façade.
The updated exterior coincided with the total renovation of the historic 120-year-old German beer hall Schroeder's, located on the ground floor; the interior was independently renovated to reflect a modern re-branding for the Financial District favorite.
Photography by Ken Gutmaker
www.kengutmaker.com