South Beach Harbor Services Building
San Francisco
Located just north of AT&T Park, the South Beach Harbor Services Building establishes a distinctive identity for the expanded maritime and public recreational amenities envisioned as part of the redevelopment of Pier 40.
Wing Lee drew inspiration from traditional boat construction, expressing the urban façade as a gently curved screen of Brazilian ipe wood slats. Evoking the ribbed structure and craftsmanship of a ship's hull, the sculptural wood screen creates a warm, tactile presence along the streetscape while defining a memorable civic identity.
In contrast, the bay-facing façade is conceived as a transparent glass enclosure that embraces the waterfront. Expansive glazing maximizes harbor views, fills the interior with natural daylight, and strengthens the visual connection between the building and the public promenade. Together, the two façades respond to their distinct contexts—one solid and textured toward the city, the other light and transparent toward the bay—creating a building that seamlessly bridges the urban environment and the waterfront.

