This project includes a seismic upgrade and modernization of a historic 3 story unreinforced masonry building. Construction for this project began in September, 2003 and includes full seismic and ADA upgrades. In addition to the seismic reinforcement, work included space programming, space layouts, workstation design, custom casework design, lighting and color coordination, and tenant improvements for the entire building (approximately 9,000 SF). 

Damage from the Loma Prieta Earthquake of 1989 forced The Archdiocese of San Francisco to seek temporary housing for St. Mary’s Chinese School.  Mock/Wallace assisted in the search for a new site for the school. 

The historic Our Lady of Guadalupe Church above the Broadway tunnel was vacant and available and we determined it would be suitable.  Given a new purpose as a temporary location for the School, the sanctuary and community room was converted into nine classrooms, offices, library and new toilets.  The historic interiors including the altar and chapels were preserved for a future restoration.   Work included seismic upgrade, historic preservation, and appearances before the SF Planning Commission and State Landmarks Board. 

 

Techspace at 2500 Potrero Street is San Francisco was conceived as temporary start-up space for high tech companies with the infrastructure and connectivity needed.  Mock/Wallace completed the seismic upgrade of this existing warehouse and was the Architect of Record for the Tenant Improvements.

The historically significant Ambassador Hotel was a 6 story un-reinforced masonry building with commercial tenants at street level and 150 SRO units above.  The project required approval by the both the San Francisco Landmarks Board and HUD.  Along with a seismic upgrade, ADA improvements, and new building systems, the re-design of the residential spaces provided improved common kitchens, lounges, laundries, and private baths in all the units.  Plumbing, mechanical, electrical, elevators, and other building systems were replaced. 

A new addition on the second floor level provides 4,200 square feet of space for service providers and community spaces, as well as 6,600 square foot of rooftop open space. Street level storefronts were renovated to be compatible with the original appearance of the building. The historic neon sign has been restored. Our client was the non-profit developer Tenderloin Neighborhood Development.  See their website here.

Retained for a simple modernization of the building, our seismic assessment of the building determined the building would pose a serious threat in an earthquake.  Our study allowed CCSF to obtain funding for the seismic retrofit of the building.  A temporary canopy to protect the entry from falling bricks in the event of an earthquake was installed as an interim measure while the building waited for a major seismic reinforcement.