SF Tech Tour Part III: Doesn’t everyone have a roof deck?

I recently visited Yelp, GitHub, Ripple, Wired, Pandora, Airbnb, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. While
each space had a very different look, some distinct themes emerged.

We all know that fresh air and light make us happier and healthier but many workspaces are designed to keep us in stale indoor spaces. That is not the case in the offices I toured. GitHub’s LEED gold certified workspace boasts a roof deck with WiFi that was filled with GitHubbers the day I visited. It is also the locale of many after-hours social events for employees and/or clients.

LinkedIn and Ripple’s spaces also feature roof decks where employees are encouraged to work or meet at any time. LinkedIn’s first floor building lobby is a public open space – something unique to San Francisco. The walls to the street slide into pockets to allow an open air lobby where the public is welcome during business hours.

Airbnb’s space (also LEED gold certified) features a living wall in its five story lobby.

Yelp chose their 1920s era building for its unique Art Deco design as well as its operable windows.