As a leading venture capital firm with a growing presence in San Francisco, Norwest sought to establish an office in which to meet with entrepreneurs, host industry events, and offer special programs for the start-ups they support. Rapt worked with them to create a welcoming, cross-functional space in the city’s exclusive South Park neighborhood.
 In the open plan, separate areas are delineated by materiality. Past the reception desk – designed like a jack knife – is a living room with inlaid leather flooring and warm lighting. Beyond, a marble serving block and extended wood table are perfect for catered dinners. To the right, chairs wrap around a fireplace for the firm’s characteristic fireside chats; to the left, rooms encased in glass let in natural light and provide space for meetings. Individual offices sit near a wall showcasing successful projects the firm has seen through. Furniture in the center of the 7,000-square-foot space can be moved aside to make room for gatherings. Throughout, details influenced by hospitality and residential design conspire to create an inviting, inclusive space that's at once spacious and sophisticated. Featuring furniture by local artists and smaller, well-respected industry partners, the space solidifies the firm’s value of supporting small businesses and the regional community. And now, with this space, Norwest can do more of what they do best: help young entrepreneurs take their businesses where they want them to go.