Emergence Capital

When the venture capital firm Emergence sought a new look for its headquarters in San Mateo, the aim was to strike a balance between the open, friendly, informal creativity of its tech-heavy portfolio—companies such as Box.Net, Genius.Com, etc.—and the bedrock values of a capital investment firm. O+A found that balance in the natural setting of the company’s South Bay location.

Our design pulls the outside in with large windows that make the surrounding green landscape part of the interior décor. The outdoor terrace is visible from every location in the office. Rich wood finishes and low-key lighting add warmth and weight, while a unique radial floorplan gives the space a graceful sweep. Distinctive art reinforces the subtext of marrying creativity with investment.

The cumulative effect is that of a very contemporary, technologically sophisticated hunting lodge. One casual meeting space features a functioning fireplace, leather chairs and large doors that open onto the terrace. A variety of textured finishes—timber veneer, slate, stucco, subway tiles—gives individual offices and meeting areas their own distinct character—all of them welcoming and all of them warm.