1070 Folsom Street

Located in the SOMA district of San Francisco, on 6th Street and Folsom, we were approached to create a design that maximized the potential of the small site, 25’ x 80’, in order to replace the existing two-story. Per planning and zoning requirements, we designed a new multi-use six story structure that steps back from the street. The first level is commercial restaurant, the second level is office, the third through the sixth floors are residential in a combination of two-story townhouse and studio apartments. The building steps back from Folsom on the 5th floor creating a communal roof deck, while it simultaneously minimizes the shadows that could fall on the public park across the street.

A communal elevator and stair lead to all units. An internal courtyard provides light and air to the residential units as well as allows a secondary means emergency egress. Perforate sun screens frame the south facing windows as well as provide privacy from the four lanes of one-way traffic on Folsom. The perforations are water-jet cut steel to create a pattern of dappled light through foliage.

In collaboration with Consortium Architecture