BioMed Realty Lobby Social Club x Proper Food

BioMed Realty, a pioneer in life science development, envisioned its Gateway of Pacific campus as the symbolic “front door” to one of the world’s largest biotech clusters in South San Francisco. As part of a larger effort to reimagine its lobbies campus-wide, the design team was engaged to transform the Building 3 entrance from sterile and impersonal to hospitality-forward and community-centered. 

While its overall architecture and prime location were impressive, the lobby didn’t realize its full potential. Despite its soaring, multi-volume scale, stark white finishes emulated the surrounding labs and felt disconnected from the lush, biophilic heart of the campus. To enhance the visitor experience and instill a deeper connection to place, the repositioned lobby now functions as public amenity for eating, socializing, working, and everything in between. 

The design team chose to rethink this entry point not just as an architectural transition, but as an emotional one, creating modern foyer not just for passing through but also for being welcomed in. Freeing up valuable square footage at the entrance for a warmer arrival, an underutilized reception desk was replaced by a circular coffee and juice bar featuring a custom counter, grab-and-go food options from Proper Food, and expanded seating, creating a vibrant hub for social interaction and informal meetings. 

Anchored by sustainability, the project involved minimal demolition. Original infrastructure was largely retained, including floors, ceilings, and lighting that were revamped with conscious material choices and biophilia to evoke California culture and ecology. Locally sourced softwoods wrap structural columns, and custom furniture (in collaboration with California makers) bring strong silhouettes and handcrafted flair in an ode to West Coast craft.  

Breathing new life into campus, a once-static lobby now hums with activity as a third space for the community and employees alike.

Client Statements

“We love the results and the journey.”
– Salil Payappilly, BMR Senior Vice President of Development 

“People have even been spotted with microscopes working here. This project is a hit – on to the next one!”
– Elizabeth Paden, BMR Vice President of Development