Designing the cultural landscapes of the future across the West Coast, from S to XL
Founded in 2002, San Francisco was the home to SWA’s first West Coast office, with the firm returning in 2002. Founded by René Bihan, a Managing Principal whose tenure at SWA began in the Sausalito office and spans over 35 years, the studio was initially created to focus on urban design. The space is defined by a colorful and active nature in both the studio’s nature and the work produced. In addition to commercial, entertainment, and educational work, the office specializes in significant cultural landscapes, national parks, and contemporary memorials. Beyond local work in the United States, the firm has a strong presence in China and Southeast Asia.
SWA’s San Francisco office can be found between Union Square and Chinatown, with a contemporary loft-like design defining the space. The walls are decorated with staff-drawn murals throughout the studio and a rotating pinup wall showcases the latest and greatest from the office. Modular seating, a balcony, and planters along the windows complement the wall art. The studio utilizes this space by treating it as a cultural living room for the local landscape architecture community, nurturing close ties with SPUR, the San Francisco ULI Chapter, and LGBTQ+ organizations.