Knoll San Francisco Showroom by Architecture Research Office

Knoll’s new West Coast home occupies the 25th floor of an office tower near the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. The exposed masonry walls and concrete ceilings and columns were preserved to form an industrial backdrop to Knoll’s collection of furniture and a new line of Irma Boom wallpaper. Also on display is the striking red 07 Bench by OMA, part of the Tools for Life collection for Knoll, shown at Milan Furniture Fair last year.

Knoll textiles are used throughout the space to provide warmth and texture. In the lobby, a white felt Knoll logo on a red felt wall introduces the brand to visitors, while red perforated metal screens demarcate break-out spaces and seating areas. More intimate, glazed rooms are enclosed within the larger open space and the open plan areas allow Knoll to test out new desking concepts.

Architecture Research Office says: ‘The close collaboration between Knoll and ARO led to an interior where furniture and architecture work hand in hand, combining a modern aesthetic with the latest in workspace planning and technology. ARO’s design reflects attention to craftsmanship and the use of Knoll’s textiles through the space provides warmth and rich materiality.’