Essence

Helping leading brands connect with and better engage customers online, Essence is the largest independent buyer of digital media in the world.  For its San Francisco location, the agency desired a look and feel akin to its international offices – social, spacious, and branded simply. Working with the landlord, Huntsman explored peeling back several layers of dated tenant improvements in an historic building to create a modern, exposed interior in which Essence could then layer on its own design aesthetic and identity.  Capitalizing on a wide and full-height window wall for views of the City and daylight, Huntsman situated the reception, lobby, and a gallery of casual seating as the main social space.  Nearby, a side-loaded core houses the main boardroom with a custom 16-seat round table, print and copy room, private offices, and a huddle area for quick brainstorming sessions.  Workstations make up the center of the space surrounded by amenities and meeting rooms on all sides.  

A series of original skylights above the open break room make the park-themed dining area feel like it is practically outdoors.  Adding to this visual narrative, the employee lounge, where staff can video-conference with every office, takes its cues from the beach and sea – a tradition the company has shared in each of its six locations.

Client Essence Digital
Location San Francisco, CA
Scope Office Design
Size 11,000 square feet

Credits Photography by Brendan Williams