Architecture landscaping

Architecture & Landscaping

Westfield San Francisco Centre seamlessly blends modern architecture with historic features of its landmark location. Several experts including the design architects, RTKL Associates, and historic architectural consultants, Carey & Co., plus more than 40 electrical, sprinkler, metal, framing, plaster and painting professionals worked closely with both Westfield and Forest City to restore and rebuild the center for its 2006 expansion grand opening.

The Dome
Designed by renowned architect Albert Pissis, the original dome and Market Street façade were considered the signature features of the building when it opened in 1896.

The 102 foot-wide, three-story circular structure weighs 500,000 pounds. The restored dome is the centerpiece of a 200-foot-long, 65-foot-wide atrium and colonnade. It is 98-feet from the floor of the grand rotunda, which begins on the fourth floor of the centre, to the top of the dome’s ceiling. As part of the construction process, the dome was elevated 58-feet in its original position to the roof of the new structure to allow natural light through its crown and lunette windows. The dome now sits about 168-feet above Market and Mission Streets. More than 900 lights encased in the ribs of the dome have been restored around its more than 800 glass panels.

The Facade
The façade is built mostly of Colusa sandstone with a brick backing. The cast-iron window system, sandstone walls, columns, historic wood windows and glazing were completely restored. The revived street level features extensive display windows, bronze doors and copper piping, all elements of its 1908 appearance, as well as charming concealed entries and windows. Balustrades removed in years past are again prominent at the building’s cornice and over the main entry of the fourth floor. At night, lighting highlights the façade’s remarkable architecture. The Market Street façade serves as a main entrance to the centre preserving the old world charm of historic Union Square and Market Street.

Westfield San Francisco Centre received the 2009 ICSC award for Design and Development.

"The newly renovated and expanded Westfield San Francisco Centre is a cutting-edge retail, entertainment, office and dining experience. The center's design preserved one of the city's most revered buildings, the former Emporium department store building, and repositioned the center as a 21st century engine of commerce, community and culture."