At 88 Kearny, the challenge was clear: redefine the commercial lobby in a competitive San Francisco market by creating an amenity-driven entry that feels immersive, forward-thinking, and distinctly local. Lighting and controls were established early as central to this vision—shaping not just visibility, but atmosphere and experience.

Spanning 75 feet in length and rising 23 feet high, a custom-programmed LED digital media wall anchors the space. Rather than acting as a standalone feature, it is seamlessly integrated into the architectural environment. Vertical illuminated fins extend the media composition into the volume of the lobby, while concealed linear lighting within the wood-paneled walls adds warmth and balance. Together, these layers create a dialogue between technology and materiality—cool light and natural wood, motion and stillness.

Advanced motion-sensing controls allow the space to respond to patrons as they enter and move through the lobby. The digital content and architectural lighting operate cohesively, adjusting intensity and atmosphere in real time. Depending on the media displayed, the surrounding lighting subtly brightens or dims to preserve visual comfort and maintain the intended mood. This coordinated strategy not only enhances immersion, but reduces overall power density by an additional 20–30% below IES guidelines, contributing to the project’s LEED Gold certification.

Flexibility was fundamental to the controls design. A multi-layered zoning approach and detailed programming framework allow future content updates and evolving tenant needs without compromising design integrity. The result is a space that feels calm yet kinetic—where light guides, responds, and transforms.

At 88 Kearny, tenants never experience the same walk twice; the lobby is a living environment shaped by light, movement, and curated digital expression.