In San Francisco's historic Jackson Heights neighborhood, once the city's Gold Rush-era epicenter, a three-story Italianate structure sits nestled on a quiet street shaded by ficus and Chinese elm. Built in 1907 with renewed optimism following the city's devastating earthquake, the building today houses a private VC firm with an eye trained resolutely on the future.

One passes through brass-framed double doors to a light-filled reception area with a custom-built slatted wood desk and plush lounge seating. An open-plan kitchen and cafe area propose an ease of movement, inviting casual connection, while meeting rooms are outfitted with warm neutral finishes enlivened by colorful accent lighting.

Upstairs, sunlight continues to illuminate the space, streaming through skylights and French casement windows. In the conference room and throughout, the structure's original brick is left exposed, a time-honored relic made modern with wood surfaces and leather seating. Custom acoustic panels and audio-visual amenities emphasize function, while an abstract painting by Montreal-based artist Edward View softens the surroundings and invites contemplation.

In the open work area, 11-foot ceilings with exposed beams and skylights contribute to an air of loftiness, with flexible seating arranged to accommodate the firm's ever-evolving team. In this century-old structure that's lived many lives, the design honors this illustrious past while ushering it swiftly into a new age of innovation.