You probably remember the contest that sparked a wave of creativity as we sought to breathe new life into the vacant Café 24 space at Genentech Hall. Perhaps you were one of the 113 visionaries who contributed to this transformative process, offering ideas ranging from succinct three-sentence plans to detailed 20-page proposals.
We studied them all.
The Big Plan
Originally, the plan was to choose a single winning concept. However, the sheer abundance of exceptional ideas, many complementing and enhancing one another, fueled our decision to weave them into a singular, dynamic vision.
The upcoming space will be a vibrant sanctuary – a hub for community. Inside, you'll discover communal tables, interspersed with cafe seating options. Brightly colored chairs, a pool table, and vending machines standing ready to quench your thirst and satisfy midday cravings. Outside, the patio will offer seating with shade to keep the Mission Bay sun at bay. The familiar, focal planter with lush drought-tolerant plants will remain in place.
Floor plan for the Café 24 space refresh. Shows a pool table, plants, and various seating options.
Co-Creating the Vision
In a commitment to ensuring the final space embodies the collective spirit of the submitted ideas, we assembled a special team for this project. Comprised of building stakeholders, leadership, faculty, Facilities Services, and a skilled designer, the team meticulously reviewed all submissions. Together, they crafted a design that would best serve the UCSF community. (Planning committee pictures right. From left to right are Jon Giacomi, Erin Gore, Becky Daro, Tamara Villarina, Jen Dowd, Jennifer Chan, Hannah Evans, and David Morgan.)
Mark your calendars for the grand opening in Spring 2024, where Genentech Hall will unveil its refreshed second-floor space, a testament to the power of collective creativity and collaboration.
