CASE STUDY EXAMPLE:
Gensler Oakland Offices, Oakland, CA

Project Description 

Gensler’s Oakland office is a dynamic workspace defined by function, flexibility, and connection to the city, the community, and its people. Located on the top floor of a Class A tower, the office offers stunning 360-degree views of the Bay Area, seamlessly blending inspiring architecture with the natural beauty of the region. The design balances open work areas, flexible project spaces, and well-appointed meeting rooms, including the signature “Scarlet” conference room—a space where adaptability and elegance intersect.

The Challenge

Gensler envisioned a workplace where spaces could transform effortlessly to suit a wide range of uses—from focused meetings to large social gatherings. The goal for the Scarlet conference room was ambitious: create a large conference area adjacent to reception that could open fully to the main space or close seamlessly for privacy, without compromising aesthetic integrity or operational ease. This vision required a precision-engineered solution that provided acoustic performance, clean lines, and true flexibility, while aligning with Gensler’s high standards of design excellence.

The Solution

PK-30 System partnered closely with Gensler’s design team to realize this vision. The Scarlet room is enclosed with PK-30’s Sliding Stacking System and Single Swing Door, providing the flexibility and performance Gensler demanded:

• Sliding/Stacking Panels: 15 panels on PK-30’s sliding stacking hardware system, suspended from a precision-engineered upper track with bottom deadbolts and footbolt locks that engage into dustproof floor strikes. The design eliminates the need for a continuous bottom guide channel, preserving the floor’s clean aesthetic.
• Single Swing Door: A center pivot swing door with no mullions, featuring double-acting concealed floor closers and sleek back-to-back glass-mounted bar pulls for a minimalist, modern aesthetic.

This operable wall system allows the Scarlet room to transform in moments—from an enclosed meeting space to an extension of the reception and event area—supporting Gensler’s goal of flexibility without compromise.

The Results

From initial design to final installation, PK-30 System delivered a flawless experience:

• Design Support: Our team collaborated closely with Gensler during the design development and shop drawing phases, ensuring that every detail reflected the design intent.
• Project Management: With a dedicated project manager, we provided responsive coordination, keeping the project on track and eliminating surprises.
• Production: Every element was prefabricated and fully mocked up at our factory to ensure perfection prior to delivery.
• Installation: The PK-30 system arrived at the site ready to install, resulting in a fast, clean, and trouble-free installation that met the tight construction schedule.
• End-User Experience: The Scarlet room’s operable wall system delivers daily value: effortless operation, no maintenance headaches, and the ability to reconfigure space at a moment’s notice.

Why PK-30

PK-30 System’s unmatched precision, customization capabilities, and collaborative approach made us the ideal partner for Gensler. Unlike standard systems, PK-30 provides:

• Sliding stacking walls that achieve true co-planarity with no visible track hardware at the floor
• Custom heights up to 12’ as standard (surpassing the typical 10’ limit standard systems offer)
• A clean, modern aesthetic that integrates seamlessly into sophisticated architectural environments

Conclusion

The Scarlet conference room at Gensler Oakland exemplifies what’s possible when innovative design meets precision engineering. PK-30 System empowered Gensler to achieve its vision: a flexible, inspiring workspace that adapts effortlessly to its users’ needs. This project stands as a testament to the value of working with PK-30—not just for our product, but for the unparalleled experience our team provides at every stage, from concept through completion.