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Historic Preservation Commission approves major alterations for 2 Stockton Street in Union Square
Summary
The commission approved a major permit to alter 2 Stockton Street (corner of Stockton and Market) including a three‑story vertical addition and façade replacement, finding the revised design compatible with district guidelines; the vote was unanimous 7–0.
The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission on Oct. 19 approved a major permit to alter 2 Stockton Street, authorizing façade replacement and a three‑story vertical addition to convert part of the building to mixed retail and office use.
Staff presentation: Rebecca Salgado, planning staff, told commissioners the building (originally constructed 1907 with major alterations in 1937 and 1995) was determined non‑contributing to the conservation district in its current condition; staff recommended approval with conditions and said the proposal complied with Article 11 and the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.
Design response and rationale: Architect Bob Perry of Gensler presented revisions made after Architectural Review Committee comments, including a pronounced two‑story base defined by contrasting brick textures, a stronger corner expression with a projecting parapet cap, and refined storefront organization for Stockton Street. Perry said the proposal emphasized vertical bays and brick texturing to add depth and visual interest.
Public support: Melanie Medina of the Union Square Alliance, a business improvement district, urged approval and said the project would aid downtown recovery by attracting office tenants and boosting foot traffic.
Commission reaction and vote: Commissioners praised the design evolution while debating the building’s historic modernist associations; after discussion a motion to approve the proposed design passed unanimously, 7–0.
Next steps: The vote authorizes staff to finalize conditions of approval; the project will proceed to the Planning Commission and related joint hearings for zoning and downtown project authorizations as required by the project timeline.
Key quote: "Projects like the one proposed at 2 Stockton are essential to the vitality of our community," said Melanie Medina of the Union Square Alliance.
This action was taken at the Oct. 19, 2022 Historic Preservation Commission hearing.
