Bill Sorro Community
In the heart of the historic Sixth Street Lodging House District, we designed this mixed-use building to reanimate an abandoned corner with 67 affordable family apartments and restaurant, retail, and community space. Above the double-height ground-floor retail space, the building divides into two volumes that resonate with the neighborhood’s historic fabric. The nine-story tower marks the intersection; the other tower steps down along Sixth.
The project replaces the burned out shell of the Hugo Hotel, which, from 1997, hosted the public artwork, Defenestration, by Brian Goggin.
Taking cues from older masonry buildings in the district and along Market street, the building features deeply recessed fenestration and a prominent cornice. These elements are not simply applied motifs; the thick exterior wall incorporates interior casework and the cornice performs as guardrail, sun shade, and penthouse roof.
A private roof deck off a top floor unit.
Private balconies rotate to serve two and three-bedroom units.
A shared roof deck looks over the San Francisco skyline and provides lovely outdoor space for residence.
The community's name honors Filipino-American housing activist Bill Sorro. A ceramic mural in the lobby commemorates his legacy.
Double-height glazing adds light and spaciousness to corridors.
Novel programming makes efficient use of a tight courtyard.
