When Reach Capital, an education fin-tech start-up, needed to set-up headquarters, they sought out a turnkey office location in San Francisco’s SoMa neighborhood, the city’s latest tech hub. They leased an industrial industrial-chic space with generous windows and skylights.

Reach Capital tapped John Lum Architecture to fit out the space while maintaining the architectural integrity of the core and shell. They wanted to highlight the exposed wood beam ceilings and concrete walls and keep all the built out spaces naturally lit. In addition, they wanted the space to reflect their collaborative culture and their passion for education.

As a result, JLA created an open floor plan and arranged conference and huddle rooms along the perimeter. The rooms feature folding glass doors that open up to the main space. The glass enclosures serve dual purpose — to pull in light from the exterior windows and to frame the natural, rustic character of the space. To further filter in light throughout, perimeter rooms are subdivided by clerestory-windowed walls, creating various sized-spaces to meet the client’s needs.

In order to create a vibe that reflects the intellect of the firm while paying homage to bones of the building, a modern color palette pairs with midcentury modern furniture. A chalkboard-like mural wall, scribbled with formulas and science imagery, defines the reception area. With a focus on team collaboration, the main work area, centrally located, features an open, adaptable floor plan with a series of brightly colored benching workstations. Tables on castors and mobile task chairs can be quickly reconfigured to meet changing demands. Ancillary furniture, in streamlined silhouettes and subdued grays and spruce blues, define social areas.

By playing up the building’s framework and creating a floor plan with a cohesive flow, JLA was able to design a space that exudes comfort, community, and functionality.

Photos: Paul Dyer